Cristiano Ronaldo makes feelings clear after causing controversy in Portugal win over Czech Republic
BBC
Cristiano Ronaldo has made it clear he's happy with Portugal's 2-1 Euro 2024 win over Czech Republic on Tuesday night, despite causing controversy during the clash.
Portugal appeared to be heading for defeat when Lukas Provod put Czechia ahead in the 62nd minute.
However, Roberto Martinez's side then mounted a stirring comeback to secure all three points.
An own goal from Robin Hranac drew Portugal level, with Porto star Francisco Conceicao netting a winner at the death to clinch victory.
Cristiano Ronaldo appeared to mock Czech Republic goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek as Portugal beat Czech Republic
BBC
After Conceicao put Portugal ahead in the dying stages, Ronaldo appeared to taunt goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek.
The 39-year-old, who currently plys his trade in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr, pumped his first out towards the Slavia Prague star.
Ronaldo also seemed to shout something in the ear of midfielder Petr Sevcik, too.
Fans on X have since criticised the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star, with one user calling him 'classless'.
Another said: "This video demonstrates one of the reasons I just can't warm to him! What was that celebration in the face of his opponents about?"
A third stated: "He is the worst sportsman."
And a fourth said: "Doesn't need to do that. Not the best look."
Ronaldo doesn't appear to be too bothered by the incident, however.
The veteran, who is playing at the European Championships for the sixth time in his career, has taken to Instagram to react to the result.
And Ronaldo made it clear he was delighted by showing an image of himself with his fist raised with a caption that read: "All the way Portugal!!!"
While his antics towards the end of the match has triggered criticism from supporters, Ronaldo will be relieved with the result.
Portugal weren't at their best throughout the contest, despite dominating possession.
Ronaldo missed a couple of big chances to score for his country while earning his 206th cap.
Yet while the veteran was unable to find the net, Conceicao's late goal ultimately spared Portugal's blushes.
Speaking after the win, Portugal boss Martinez hailed his side's 'incredible character', having been impressed by their desire to win the match.
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“We didn’t expect easy games," he said. "We played against a spirited Czechia, they were very hard and they were very clinical; had one shot on target and they scored.
“It was also a test of character. You look at the stats, 70 per cent of possession, 13 corners; you see a lot of good work.
“But when we were losing 1-0, we had to control the nerves and I think that the character that we showed today was incredible, something that will help us a lot.
“We won the game. We need to value what we did well as well; we defended very, very well.
“When you limit Czechia to no corners and just one shot on target, I think we can build a lot on the good things that we did today.”
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Cristiano Ronaldo appeared to shout in the ear of a Czech Republic star during Portugal's Euro 2024 win on Tuesday night
BBC
Portugal are next in action against Turkey on Saturday (5pm).
Turkey beat Georgia 3-1 in their own Group F Euros opener on Tuesday with Mert Muldur, Arda Guler and Muhammed Kerem Akturkoglu all on target.