Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal endured a shocking 0-2 defeat against Georgia in a pivotal match at UEFA Euro 2024, marking a significant setback in the star striker’s career.
This loss marked the first time Ronaldo failed to score during the group stage of a major international tournament. The goals for Georgia came from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze, sealing an unexpected victory over the Portuguese side.
Despite this setback, Portugal remains at the top of Group F with two wins and one loss, poised to face Slovenia in the round of 16 on July 1st. Ronaldo’s sole contribution during the group stage was an assist to Bruno Fernandes in a 3-0 victory over Turkey.
This tournament represents Ronaldo’s tenth major international competition with Portugal, where he has consistently found the net in previous group stages.
However, his recent form has seen him struggle, failing to score a non-penalty goal in his last ten matches at major international tournaments. Nonetheless, Ronaldo, at 39 years old, continues to hold the record for the most goals in Euro competition history, currently standing at 14 goals.
The match against Georgia also marked Ronaldo’s 50th appearance in major international competitions for Portugal, comprising 22 appearances at the FIFA World Cup and 28 at the European Championship. With 210 appearances overall, Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time top scorer with an impressive tally of 130 goals.
As the Euro 2024 progresses in Germany, Ronaldo and Portugal remain determined to secure their second title, having clinched their first in 2016. The tournament, running from June 14th to July 14th, sees Italy defending their title amidst stiff competition from European football’s elite nations.