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FootballEuro 2024: Cristiano Ronaldo Shows Enormous Passion, Hugs Francisco Conceicao As Portugal Seal Win
- Cristiano Ronaldo was grappled with emotion after Portugal sealed a hard-fought win against the Czech Republic
- Substitute Francisco Conceicao was the eventual match-winner, with his late strike sealing a 2-1 win for the Selecao
- Despite the win, the 2016 champions sit in second place behind Group F leaders Turkey based on goal difference
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Cristiano Ronaldo couldn't contain his emotions as Portugal staged a dramatic come-from-behind victory against the Czech Republic in their opening Group F match at Euro 2024 on Tuesday night.
Although he didn't score, the 39-year-old played a pivotal role in Portugal's first win of the competition.
An own goal by Czech defender Robin Hranac and a late strike from substitute Francisco Conceicao turned the match around for the Selecao after Lukas Provod had given Czechia an unexpected lead in an enthralling game.
Interestingly, the first half ended goalless, a rarity in the ongoing tournament.
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However, the second half was packed with action, including a goal by Diogo Jota that was disallowed due to an offside call by VAR, per Eurosport.
Shortly after, the 2016 champions managed to get the much-needed winning goal through Conceicao, helping the Selecao begin their campaign with a win, Sky Sports reports.
Ronaldo shares passionate embrace with Conceicao
The nature of the victory left the entire Portuguese team overwhelmed with emotion.
Ronaldo, in particular, couldn't hide his joy, sharing a heartfelt moment with the match-winner.
In a video circulating on social media, spotted by Sports Brief, the Al-Nassr forward, who made history as the first player to compete in six European Championships, passionately embraced Conceicao after the final whistle.
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FootballRonaldo 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.