Ronaldo puts on-pitch tears down to thosefootball's 'inexplicable moments'

Cristiano Ronaldo reacted to shedding tears during Portugal's Euro 2024 clash against Slovenia and then scoring a penalty in the shoot-out victory by calling them "inexplicable moments".

Ronaldo was cast in the role of villain after missing a series of chances and having his extra-time penalty saved by Slovenia goalkeeper Jan Oblak in the scoreless encounter.

The 39-year-old was in tears during the extra-time break and consoled by team-mates, but he converted a spot-kick in the ensuing shoot-out as Diogo Costa saved all three Slovenia penalties and Portugal won 3-0.

"Even the strongest people have their (bad) days," Ronaldo told reporters after the game.

"I was at rock bottom when the team needed me most. I was sad at first but now I’m happy.

"That’s what football is. Moments, inexplicable moments."

RTÉ pundit Didi Hamann was searing in his criticism of the Portugal star after the game.

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Asked about his outpouring of emotions during the match, Ronaldo replied: "When I think of my family, I feel emotional because they are unique moments that I cannot express in words.

"They are people I love, the fans who are always with us and especially with me, and I am very happy about that.

"I hadn’t missed a penalty kick all year. At this moment I missed it, but the most important thing is that the team won.

"I lost twice on penalties this season and won the third time. Sometimes football is fair and sometimes just, but we we deserved to qualify.

"I will always give my best for this