We're only human, Portugal's Silva says of Ronaldo's tears

HAMBURG, Germany : Cristiano Ronaldo's breakdown after missing a penalty for Portugal was a reminder that footballers are human too despite their elevated status, teammate Bernardo Silva said on Thursday.

Ronaldo's tears after his failure from the spot, with the score at 0-0 against Slovenia in their Euro 2024 last-16 game, has been an abiding image of the tournament and brought criticism from some fans and pundits of self-importance.

"We're humans and he felt emotional when he missed a penalty. It's acceptable, isn’t it? Sometimes you react in ways you don’t expect... he felt he could have done better in that moment," Silva told a news conference.

"He cries for a bit, which is how humans deal with emotions sometimes. So I don’t see any reason for people to discuss about it, but obviously people will, because that’s the business."

Despite missing during the game, Ronaldo was first up for the penalty shootout against Slovenia which Portugal won, thanks also to a successful spotkick by Silva.

The midfielder said criticism of Portugal - including for supposedly lacking flair - was normal and not affecting preparation for Friday's quarter-final showdown with France.

'EVERYONE IS A MANAGER'

"We understand it, it's part of the business, it's the reason why we earn so much money and we are able to give our families and friends a better life. We don't complain about the criticism, it's for good and for bad, it's our job," Silva said.

"When it comes to June and a World Cup or Euros, everyone thinks they're a manager. We get that and we accept that."

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez was similarly unfussed by all the backseat driving. "Criticism shows how passionate people are about the national team and I accept that... It's part of