WATCH: Cristiano Ronaldo rubs salt in Czech goalkeeper’s wounds after Portugal’s game-winning goal in Euro opener

Portugal vs Czech Republic turned out to be a much closer encounter than many thought it would be. From the men in white taking the lead halfway into the second half to Portugal clinching the late win, fans were treated to a rollercoaster for Portugal’s opening game of the competition.

Despite failing to score in the game, Portugal’s No.7 was at the heart of celebrations as Francisco Conceicao grabbed the late winner. A nervy encounter culminated in Portugal scraping past their opponents with a goal in the 92nd minute.

Captain Cristiano Ronaldo made no effort to conceal his relief and jubilation as the left-footed strike from Conceicao went in. Cameras captured the 39-year-old taunting opposition keeper Jindrich Stanek. Ronaldo was seen pumping his fist and staring down Stanek as he lay on the floor, devastated after conceding the late goal.

Stanek and Ronaldo had an exciting battle over the 90 minutes, and it’s safe to say that the former came out on top. Ronaldo was denied a clear cut chance in the first half, when Bruno Fernandes played him through on goal. The No.7’s free kick was also comfortably picked up by the goalkeeper.

Portugal take home all three points despite late scare from Czech Republic

Cristiano Ronaldo and co. were minutes away from dropping points in their Group F opener at the Euros. The men in red saw themselves go behind halfway into the second half despite clearly enjoying the larger share of chances till then. Portugal were thoroughly stunned when a belter of a strike from Lukas Provod found its way into the back of the net past Diogo Costa.

His right-footed shot from well outside the box curled inwards over the keeper before making the side netting bulge. Portugal immediately mustered a reaction, even though Czech defender Robin Hranac played a huge role in guiding the ball into his own net. Even though their lead vanished in the space of seven minutes, the ‘underdogs’ did well to hang on for the rest of the game.

However, Czech hearts were broken when 21-year-old Francisco Conceicao made history by grabbing a goal in his competitive debut for Portugal. His goal couldn’t have come at a better time, when a defensive ‘error’ handed him the ball in a dangerous area.

The youngster did well to keep his shot grounded and beat Jindrich Stanek from close range, who till then, was unbeaten by a Portugal player. After recently admitting that he doesn’t have much time left as a professional footballer, Ronaldo will be eager to get on the scoresheet for Portugal’s upcoming match.

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