Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa said he had the best game of his life against Slovenia on Monday, saving three penalties to send his team into the quarter-finals of Euro 2024.
After a 120-minute goalless draw in the round of 16 clash in Frankfurt, goalkeeper harbor He saved three Slovenian penalties to allow his team to win 3-0 on penalties.
The 24-year-old goalkeeper also made a one-on-one save with his foot in the second half of extra time when the Slovenian was able to Benjamin Sisco He rushed towards his goal after a defensive error.
“I think it was probably the best game of my life, and probably the game I was most useful in.“I declare Costa To the press.Players change their mind and change the way they shoot. I had to follow my instinct, that's what I felt. I'm very happy that I was able to help the team“
Costa He was happy about that. Ronaldo He gathered his strength and scored after missing a penalty in the 105th minute, which left the star in tears.
“We all felt we had to keep believing – Cristiano and I, everyone makes mistakes, but the most important thing is how we react after those mistakes.“, he added Costa.We have to believe in ourselves and that's what we did.“
Roberto Martineztrainer SelecaoHe said that emotions Ronaldo He showed how much he cared about remaining in contention for his sixth European Championship, despite his long and illustrious career.
“The feelings are incredible for someone who has done so much, and that's why I thank him… Only a penalty taker can miss a penalty“I declare Martinez.I knew he had to be the first to take the ball (in the penalty shootout) and show us the way to victory. Everyone is very proud of our captain. He gives us all a lesson, which is to be very demanding and never give up“
Midfielder Balinha Receive himTeam effort and unity” the Portugal “Till the end“, after “a lot of suffering“And also the reaction Cristiano Ronaldo After the first missed penalty kick.
“The team is still with him. He has already scored many penalties, achieved a lot in football… He had the courage to take the ball and score during the session“Saucepan.
Regarding the quarter-final match against FranceThe Portuguese player expectsdifferent match” against “A great team that doesn't even need an introduction.“And one”50/50Regarding his team's chances of qualifying for the semi-finals.
