Cristiano Ronaldo's pointed celebration as Portugal star lets emotions run free

19 June 2024 , 07:06

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Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after Portugal's Francisco Conceicao scores his team's second goal (Image: GABRIEL BOUYS)

Cristiano Ronaldo showed petulance and humility in equal measure during his celebrations of Portugal's winning goal against Czechia.

Roberto Martinez's side dominated proceedings against their opponents but looked as though they may come unstuck. Despite an overwhelming amount of chances and possession, Lukas Provod handed the Czechs the lead.

Portugal forced an own-goal from Robin Hranac to level the scores but left it late to find a winner. Diogo Jota saw his goal ruled out to the joy of Ivan Hasek's side.

VAR judged Ronaldo to be offside in the build up to the 87th-minute effort. It was a moment that saw Portugal continue their momentum as opposed to seeing their heads drop.

Porto's 21-year-old winger Francisco Conceicao was the figure who would make the telling contribution. The supersub swiped the ball in from six yards during stoppage time to ensure his side earned three points in their opening game.

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It was the youngster's first international goal in his third cap and the 39-year-old Ronaldo was just as happy for his contribution. The Al-Nassr star could not contain his enthusiasm as he ran past Czechia goalkeeper Jindrek Stanich and pumped his fist towards him in a mocking manner.

Ronaldo's celebrations did not end there, however. The former Manchester United striker was sure to show Conceicao his appreciation.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal celebrates his teammate Francisco Conceicao (Halil Sagirkaya)

Portugal's captain embraced his topless teammate and brought him close after the matchwinner had already been mobbed by the rest of the squad. Come the full time whistle, Ronaldo then made his way directly to Conceicao in an illustration of the young ace's significant impact.

Safe to say Conceicao, was pleased with his impact. “It was a tough game," he said.

"I wanted to help the team score the goal we needed to start the Euro well with a win and that’s what I did. I helped the team and luckily things turned out well.

“It’s a tremendous joy to represent our country. My father, mother, brothers and my girlfriend, lots of people were here, so this victory is for them.”

Scott Trotter