Portugal secures spot in UEFA EURO 2024 quarterfinals after 3-0 win over Slovenia
(MENAFN) On Monday, Portugal clinched a spot in the UEFA EURO 2024 quarterfinals with a dramatic 3-0 victory over Slovenia in a penalty shootout at the Frankfurt Arena.
The match saw heroic performances, notably from Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa, who emerged as the star of the night. Costa made history by becoming the first goalkeeper to save three penalties in a EURO shootout. His crucial saves from Slovenia's Josip Ilicic, Jure Balkovec, and Benjamin Verbic paved the way for Portugal's advancement.
During the penalty shootout, Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva showcased their composure by converting their spot-kicks for Portugal. Earlier in extra time, Slovenia's goalkeeper Jan Oblak had denied Ronaldo's penalty in the 105th minute, setting up a tense finale.
Despite a missed opportunity by Slovenia's Benjamin Sesko, Portugal, under the leadership of coach Roberto Martinez, secured their spot in the quarterfinals. Costa's standout performance was acknowledged as he was named the man of the match by UEFA's Technical Observer Panel, highlighting his pivotal saves and overall concentration throughout the game.
Portugal's next challenge awaits them against France in a highly anticipated showdown scheduled for Friday in Hamburg. France, after defeating Belgium 1-0 earlier on Monday with Jan Vertonghen's own goal, is also a formidable contender with a rich history in the EURO tournament. Portugal, the reigning EURO 2016 champions, will aim to replicate their success against a resilient French team seeking their third EURO triumph.
As the EURO 2024 tournament progresses, fans eagerly anticipate more thrilling encounters as these football powerhouses vie for continental glory on the pitch.
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