The result ended Portugal’s run of 10 straight defeats against France, who had eliminated them in the semifinals at Euro 1984, Euro 2000 and the 2006 World Cup.
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The Atletico Madrid man became just the second player to score more than five goals at a single European Championship finals, following in the footsteps of compatriot Michel Platini, who scored nine at Euro 1984. “He put his confidence in me and today, I paid him back”. In the Euro 2004 final, Portugal lost to Greece 1-0 on home territory.
Ronaldo was in tears but he returned just before extra time to address his tired teammates.
He fell to the ground in agony in the eighth minute following a clattering challenge from Dimitri Payet. He gave us a lot of confidence and said ‘listen people, I’m sure we will win, so stay together and fight for it’.
This is the heartwarming moment a tearful French football fan was consoled by a young Portugal fan.
“In half-time, Cristiano had fantastic words for us”. “It would be utopian to not use Ronaldo and all his added value”.
Portugal defended doggedly and threatened occasionally without their inspirational skipper.
At a press conference afterwards, coach Santos could not hide his delight: “First of all, I would like to thank God, the Father, for this moment and for everything in my life”.
Portugal forward Ricardo Quaresma has heaped praise on his national teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.
Cafe worker Luis Silva, age 32, said the atmosphere at the cafe had been really upbeat with neighbouring shop owners coming in to congratulate them.
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Wales were one of the most impressive sides as well – and I was frantically running round trying to find some Welsh heritage in my ancestry so I could support them all the way to the semis!
