Euro 2024: Reason Behind Cristiano Ronaldo Standing Sideways for Portugal’s National Anthem

• Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal defeated the Czech Republic 2-1 to secure a Euro 2024 debut victory on Tuesday night
• But the 2016 European champions needed to come from behind with a 92nd-minute winner from youngster Francisco Conceicao
• The Al-Nassr superstar and captain always stands out from his Selecao teammates during Portugal's national anthem

Cristiano Ronaldo aims to conclude his illustrious international career on a high note at Euro 2024 this summer.

The 39-year-old has made history as the first player to appear in six European Championships, marking this milestone with his appearance against the Czech Republic on Tuesday night.

Leading Portugal as captain, Ronaldo took to the field for their Group H opener at Red Bull Arena.

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The Selecao overcame an initial deficit to secure a 2-1 victory, thanks to an own goal by Czech defender Robin Hranac and a late strike from substitute Francisco Conceicao, per the BBC.

Why Ronaldo stands sideways for Portugal's anthem

But during the national anthem, Ronaldo's distinctive stance set him apart from his teammates.

While players like Joao Cancelo and Bruno Fernandes stood arm in arm to sing A Portuguesa, Ronaldo stood sideways, facing the Portugal flag—a patriotic gesture he has maintained throughout his career, per Talk Sports.

Ronaldo sees this behaviour as a patriotic gesture and respect for the Portuguese national symbols.

Portugal, one of the tournament favourites, is expected to top their group, potentially setting up a round-of-16 match against a third-placed team from Groups A to C, which include strong contenders like Germany, Scotland, Spain, Italy, Denmark, and England.

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Should they advance deep into the tournament, Ronaldo will likely play a pivotal role, much like he did in 2016 when Portugal clinched a narrow 1-0 victory over France to win the championship.

Ronaldo sets record at Euro 2024

Sports Brief also reported that Cristiano Ronaldo had already set a new record before even stepping onto the field for Portugal at Euro 2024.

The Al-Nassr star's involvement in this tournament makes him the first player to compete in six European Championships, having participated in every edition since the 2004 home Euros.

Although Ronaldo is one of the oldest outfield players in this year's competition, his teammate Pepe, who is 41, holds the distinction of being the oldest.