Cristiano Ronaldo’s sister, Elma Aveiro, has disclosed the true reason behind the football star’s emotional breakdown after having a penalty saved against Slovenia. According to Aveiro, Ronaldo’s tears were not merely about missing the penalty. But because he saw their mother on the stadium’s big screen, reflecting a lifetime of suffering.
Despite missing the penalty in the first period of extra time, Ronaldo redeemed himself by scoring in the subsequent shootout, helping Portugal secure a quarter-final match against France. The veteran striker had a frustrating game, squandering numerous opportunities and facing criticism for attempting ambitious free kicks.
Ronaldo’s tears during a team huddle midway through extra time became the defining image of the match. The hero of the night was Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa, who saved all three Slovenian attempts in the shootout.
Aveiro took to Instagram to defend her brother, sharing an image of Ronaldo in tears and writing: “This scene happened when he saw our mother on the giant screen, suffering from a lifetime of pain. Do you know what that means? You don’t know… No one will ever know… Not everything is football, fame, and money.”
Ronaldo had eight attempts on goal against Slovenia and faced heavy criticism for his performance. However, Portugal coach Roberto Martinez is unlikely to drop the sport’s most famous player despite his visible physical struggles.
Speaking to Portuguese Sport TV after the shootout, Ronaldo expressed his mixed emotions: “Even the strongest people have their bad days. I was down and sad because the team needed me. Initial sadness and joy at the end, that’s what football brings, inexplicable moments. I could have given the national team the advantage, but I didn’t manage it. Oblak saved. It’s a feeling of sadness and joy at the same time, but the most important thing is progressing. The team deserved it.”
Ronaldo praised Slovenia’s defensive efforts and lauded his team, especially goalkeeper Costa, for their performance: “Slovenia spent almost the entire time defending and when it’s like that it’s very difficult. The team deserves congratulations, especially our goalkeeper who made three good saves.”
As Portugal prepares for their crucial quarter-final against France, Ronaldo’s focus and determination will be vital for their success.
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