In the past four days, since the Portuguese national team qualified for the quarter-finals of Euro 2024, captain Cristiano Ronaldo has faced harsh criticism regarding his performance in the tournament. The criticism intensified after Ronaldo missed several opportunities in the match against Slovenia in the Round of 16, including unutilized free kicks, and notably, a penalty that was saved by goalkeeper Jan Oblak. Criticism of Ronaldo on social media has not ceased over the past days, especially after the veteran star was seen crying after missing the penalty, which could have led his team to the quarter-finals without the need for a shootout.
Among the critics was former Netherlands star Ruud Gullit, who believes that "the Don" monopolizes all set pieces despite failing to score from them and missing numerous opportunities, considering that the player is always seeking to steal the spotlight. While the recent criticisms faced by Cristiano stem from missing a crucial penalty as the team captain and lacking leadership qualities, his eternal rival, Argentine Lionel Messi, almost cost his national team in the Copa America.
Against Ecuador, Lionel Messi took the first penalty kick for his country in the quarter-final match. Instead of using his usual style of taking penalties with power and speed, Messi opted for a showy "Panenka," which resulted in the ball going wide of the goal. Argentina advanced thanks to the outstanding performance of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, but Messi's moment did not go unnoticed, and he faced the same criticism that Ronaldo received, knowing that both players have yet to find the back of the net.
Criticism towards Ronaldo has diminished after he responded with a powerful penalty kick that he scored past Oblak, helping the "Mariners" advance to the semi-finals of Euro 2024.
