Bruno Fernandes Pays Tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo After Helping Portugal Qualify for Euro 2024

• Bruno Fernandes has hailed Cristiano Ronaldo's impact on the Portugal national team
• Ronaldo recently helped Selecao qualify for the Euro 2024 after scoring a brace vs Slovakia
• The veteran striker has scored an eyewatering 125 goals for Portugal

Bruno Fernandes has paid a glowing tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo following Portugal's qualification for the Euro 2024.

Portugal secured a ticket for the prestigious tournament after a 3-2 win over Slovakia, with both Fernandes and Ronaldo playing a critical part in the security of the result.

According to ESPN, Goncalo Ramos opened the scoring for Selecao before David Hancko equalised for Slovakia.

However, Bruno and Ronaldo combined moments later to see off their opponents, with the Manchester United star setting up the legendary forward for one of the goals.

Bruno pays tribute to Ronaldo

The United skipper has now underscored Ronaldo's importance to the Portugal squad in the wake of their Euro 2024 qualification.

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Speaking after the Slovakia clash, the midfielder stated that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner has helped elevate Portugal's stature in the world of football.

“We all know it, the power and the impact that Cristiano has, and has had on many of us Portuguese players, the opportunities he created for subsequent generations. Portugal was already regarded with respect, but after what Cristiano accomplished and did in the world, our name became more feared," Bruno told L'Equipe via Sportskeeda.

"We are obviously grateful to live in his time. Because we have the privilege of seeing Cristiano play. I feel privileged to play with him. Like all the other players who are here with him," he added.

Ronaldo reaches new goal-scoring landmark

Continuing his goal-scoring spree, Cristiano Ronaldo achieved significant milestones with his brace against Slovakia, ensuring Portugal's qualification for Euro 2024, Sports Brief reported.

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The goals marked his 699th and 700th, excluding penalties, an impressive feat for a player occasionally nicknamed Penaldo by fans for his penalty prowess.

If he maintains his fitness and remains part of the squad in Germany next year, he will make history as the first player to participate in six European Championships, having previously featured in 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020.