Portugal coach's stance on Cristiano Ronaldo's free-kick ban after Euro 2024 woes

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has spoken out about the possibility of banning Cristiano Ronaldo from taking free-kicks at Euro 2024. The Al-Nassr veteran failed to score on several occasions against Slovenia in the round of 16 before missing a penalty in extra time.

The fact that Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes, also an excellent free-kick taker, was denied the chance to score also drew criticism. Portugal were ultimately liberated by their goalkeeper, Diogo Costa, who saved three penalties in the shootout.

Martinez was asked about the possibility of changing the pecking order at set-pieces ahead of Friday night's quarter-final against France. But he insisted Ronaldo and Fernandes will continue to shoulder the responsibility between them.

“The players train in training,” explained the Portuguese coach. “Cristiano and Bruno Fernandes are the two players who have the responsibility. Sometimes it just depends on the profile, the position or the moment, but we are lucky to have two players of such a level.”

Ronaldo has taken 60 free kicks at major tournaments and scored only once. He is the top scorer in European Championship history, but none of those goals have come from free kicks.

Former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus striker Ronaldo was distraught over his wastefulness against Slovenia and broke down in tears after his penalty miss.

“This is football, those who fail are those who also try,” said the 39-year-old. “I will always do my best for this shirt, whether I fail or not. You must not be afraid, I have never been afraid to face things head on, sometimes I succeed, sometimes I don't, but giving up is something you will never hear from me.”

Friday night's quarter-final in Hamburg will pit Ronaldo against another global megastar, Kylian Mbappe. And while Ronaldo has been heavily criticised during the tournament, Mbappe remains a long-time admirer.

“It's an honour to face him,” said the Frenchman. “Everyone knows the admiration I've always had for Cristiano as a player. Over time, I've had the chance to know him and speak to him on many occasions. We're still in touch.”

“He always tries to give me advice and keep up to date with what’s happening in my career. It’s a pleasure. Playing against him is an honour, with everything he’s done in football. No matter what happened before or what happens in the future, he’ll always be a legend of the game.”