'That's the Cristiano that we want!' - Man Utd star Diogo Dalot points out why Portugal team-mate Ronaldo deserves credit despite criticism for performance in narrow Czech Republic win

In a dramatic match in Leipzig, Portugal managed to secure a 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic in their Euro 2024 opener. The game took a thrilling turn in the final moments as Francisco Conceicao netted the winning goal in the 92nd minute. Despite the win, Ronaldo’s performance came under scrutiny, as he led the line but failed to make the most of scoring opportunities.

Ronaldo was denied by Czech Republic goalkeeper, Jindrich Stanek, in a one-on-one situation while his frustration was compounded when an assist that could have led to a late winner for Diogo Jota was ruled out for offside. A few pundits, including Stuart Pearce, questioned Ronaldo's waning influence and opened the debate about whether the 39-year-old is holding back the Seleccao from realising their full potential.

Dalot, who has played alongside Ronaldo with both Manchester United and the Portugal national team, was quick to defend his team-mate. Speaking to reporters after the match, the full-back said: "Cristiano Ronaldo was very focused, very physically fit and always ready to score goals. I know everybody will always expect him to score goals. Sometimes he scores, and a lot of times he scores! Today he was very close. Obviously, you can see in the game that he played how much he ran today. He helped us with and without the ball he was always moving, energetic and that’s the Cristiano that we want."

Portugal's victory was far from perfect, and they face a potentially tougher challenge in their next match against Turkey on Saturday, who impressively defeated Georgia in the other Group F game. Ronaldo will look to make amends over the weekend for his earlier performance and inspire Roberto Martinez's men to another three points.