As Jan Oblak’s hand tipped Cristiano Ronaldo’s extra-time penalty on to the post, the Portuguese legend’s dreams shattered in a moment.
He had “hit rock bottom”.
The 39-year-old, who afterwards told Portuguese media this was his last Euros, bowed his head and burst into tears while team-mates raced to console their captain, with Slovenia threatening one of the Euros’ biggest ever shocks.
A legendary European Championship career seemed set to end in the cruellest of ways.
Ronaldo’s penalty was saved in extra time with the last-16 tie goalless, but just 15 minutes later he stepped up to the same spot to fire in the first of his country’s shootout kicks.
Goalkeeper Diogo Costa then made Euros history with three penalty shootout saves as Portugal survived a humiliating exit, overcoming Slovenia to set-up a quarter-final tie with France.
More tears fell from Ronaldo – this time of pure joy and relief.
“Even the strongest people have their [bad] days. I was at rock bottom when the team needed me the most,” said Ronaldo afterwards, before tearing up again.
“Sadness at the start is joy at the end. That’s what football is. Moments, inexplicable moments. I feel sad and happy at the same time.
“But the important thing is to enjoy it. The team did an extraordinary job. We fought right to the end and I think we deserved it because we had more authority.”
