Portugal have overcome a resilient Slovenia 3-0 on penalties to book their place in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals. The round of 16 tie finished goalless after 120 minutes of action as Fernando Santos' side were unable to break down a stubborn Slovenian defense.
It was a tight affair throughout as Slovenia kept Portugal at bay through an organized defensive setup. Cristiano Ronaldo went closest for the Portuguese in the first half with a powerful header that was palmed over by Jan Oblak. As the game progressed, clear chances remained scarce as the Slovenians frustrated their more illustrious opponents.
Ronaldo was presented with a golden opportunity to win it late in extra time when awarded a penalty for a foul on Diogo Jota. However, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner saw his spot kick stopped by the excellent Oblak. The game went to a penalty shootout to separate the teams.
There, Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa emerged the hero by denying Slovenia's first three penalties. Meanwhile, Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva all found the back of the net with their efforts to seal a 3-0 shootout victory.
Portugal will face a sterner test of their credentials in the last eight against world champions France on July 5th. But they will be satisfied to have overcome a stubborn Slovenian outfit to keep their tournament hopes alive. For Slovenia, their campaign ends after a courageous defensive display almost took them into the next round.
