Portugal and Ronaldo Finally Have a Trophy

Portugal has finally won a major trophy after coming so close in 2004. An Eder strike at the early stage of the second extra time proved to the difference.

Cristiano Ronaldo was stretched off after lasting 24 minutes and was substituted with Ricardo Quaresma replacing him.

This undoubtedly proved as a blessing and a curse for Portugal. In the first half, Portugal created chances that needed Ronaldo’s finish and in some counter attacks needed the sizzling runs of the 2016 Champions League winner to finish it off.

Portugal without Ronaldo also provided a chance for other players to shine and instilled a sense of responsibility in each Portuguese footballer.

Ronaldo Has Demonstrated Determination and Dedication to Portugal

Ronaldo’s determination started right from the group stage where he scored two goals against Hungary to aid Portugal advance to the Round of 16.

His performances against Croatia and Poland were sub-par but he crowned it off with a powerful header against Wales in the semi-final.

Though Ronaldo was injured, his touchline display aided the team in holding onto their lead after Eder put them on a goal up.

Ronaldo has led his country to a height that Portuguese greats Eusebio and Luis Figo could not. He has been a loser in 2004 and 12 years later has been a winner.

Love Cristiano or hate him, he has won the Uefa Champions League and Uefa Euro all in one year. This also gives him a great chance of winning the FIFA Ballon D’or.

Congratulations to Portugal and Ronaldo for winning the Uefa Euro 2016.