The Portuguese legend was named in the starting lineup for the recent Group F match against the Czech Republic, marking the 6th EURO tournament he has appeared in – a record. Ronaldo has appeared in every EURO tournament since 2004. The 39-year-old has also made more European Championship appearances than any other player, with 26 in the 4th tournament. once a year.

Ronaldo is no longer at full strength.

But ignoring the above statistics, is CR7’s performance convincing? And at the age of 39, is he a burden for European Brazil?

Portugal attacked vigorously for a long time, dominating possession but having difficulty defeating a determined Czech Republic with a tenacious figҺting spirit. The Czechs even scored the opening goal with their only shot on target, after a beautiful finish in the 62nd minute from the edge of the penalty area by Lukás Provod. Robin Hranác’s own goal helped Portugal equalize 7 minutes later, before Francisco Conceição’s close-range shot in the 92nd minute gave coach Roberto Martinez’s team the start they wаnted.

Martinez deserves praise, as two of his substitutions have left their mark. Pedro Neto’s cross was only partially blocked by Hranác, allowing Conceição – on his tournament debut – to pounce to score the winner. But clearly, this victory was too difficult and unconvincing compared to a team with so much individual talent. And any discussion about Portugal’s squad will inevitably target Ronaldo.

Ronaldo is old.

When the match had not yet started, he ran out to warm applause. During warm-ups, his shots on goal were greeted with a loud “SIUUU”. While lining up in the tunnel, Ronaldo’s high-fives made the recipients grin. During the match, the disappointment of the fans was evident when he missed a shot.

According to statistics, Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes, had the fewest touches (32) and the most shots (5). With Portugal’s position, Ronaldo’s contribution can be said to be limited. The star playing for Al Nassr did not score, missed 1 big opportunity, had no successful dribbles and only won 1 out of 5 duels.

Ronaldo could play a decisive role in the match when his header found the post in the 87th minute and Diogo Jota finished successfully. But the offside decision was made. Portugal can be excited with a late victory thanks to Conceição, but must worry about their remaining journey against Germany.

Ronaldo is trying his best to slow down the inevitability of time, a bаttle he seemed to have lost when he was eliminated in the knockout round at the 2022 World Cup. At that time, Ronaldo lost his starting spot after the group stage. . Fernando Santos shocked everyone by leaving CR7 as a substitute in both knockout round matches. Then Portugal was eliminated by Morocco in the quarterfinals, coach Santos lost his job.