Cristiano Ronaldo admits he hit 'rock bottom' after Portugal penalty miss against Slovenia as he makes vow to supporters with Euro 2024 campaign still alive

The Portuguese superstar had the opportunity to claim a quarter-final berth for his country without the need for shootout drama. The former Real Madrid star stepped up to the spot in extra-time, only to see ex-Atletico Madrid rival Jan Oblak deny him from 12 yards.

Ronaldo was left in tears after squandering a golden opportunity to seal progress into the last eight, but was all smiles afterwards as Diogo Costa delivered a penalty-saving clinic of his own to see Portugal through – with CR7 converting second time around.

The 39-year-old insists that he was never going to shy away from taking another penalty, as it is not in his nature to back down from a challenge, but he has said of riding an emotional rollercoaster against Slovenia: “Even the strongest people have their bad days. I was at rock bottom when the team needed me most. I will always give my best for this shirt, whether I fail or not, but you have to take responsibility. I have never been afraid to face things head on. Sometimes I do things right, sometimes I don’t, but giving up is something you will never hear from me.”

Ronaldo is still waiting on his first goal at Euro 2024 – and his sixth European Championship – but will be given another opportunity to break that duck and move a step closer to the ultimate prize when Portugal face France in the quarter-finals on Friday.