Costa the hero in the shootout as Seleco reach quarter-finals

Diogo Costa saved three penalties in the shoot-out to send Portugal to the Euro 2024 quarter-finals after a goalless draw with Slovenia.

More to follow.

Slovenia frustrate Portugal

A typically disciplined start from the underdog Slovenians restricted Portugal to few chances early on, with Ruben Dias scuffing one wide after an awkward bobble on the Frankfurt turf.

Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes were both then inches away from turning in a Bernardo Silva cross as the Selecao attempted to up the ante.

Ronaldo, still searching for his first goal at the tournament, saw a free-kick fly just over the bar before another missed heading opportunity, with his frustration only increasing as the half went on.

Talisman striker Benjamin Sesko was the first to test the gloves of Diogo Costa but his powerful effort from distance on the break went straight in the Portugal goalkeeper’s hands.

It was Portugal who went the closest before half-time, with some good work from Rafael Leao on the left allowing Joao Palhinha to strike a shot off the outside of the post.

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The second half began with a brilliant jinking Joao Cancelo run, who twisted and turned before his cross eventually found Bernardo, who could not keep his shot down, with Ronaldo stinging the palms of Oblak with another free-kick moments later.

Cancelo was heavily involved in a few more good moves on the right but once again, some determined Slovenian defending was equal to it.

Sesko then showcased why he is so in-demand at club level after bursting past Pepe on the run, but the 41-year-old did just enough to put the RB Leipzig striker off as he dragged his shot wide.

Portugal’s momentum slowed though and the game seemed destined for extra time as we approached the 90th minute.

Just before that though, Ronaldo looked like he might finally have his moment after being played through on goal…

Source link : https://www.101greatgoals.com/news/portugal-slovenia-euro-2024-last-16-report/

Author : Cian Cheesbrough

Publish date : 2024-07-01 21:45:13

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