WATCH: Cristiano Ronaldo consoles ‘crying’ Pepe after Portugal’s tough loss to France in Euro 2024

Pepe was inconsolable after Portugal were knocked out on penalties in the quarterfinal.

WATCH: Cristiano Ronaldo consoles ‘crying’ Pepe after Portugal’s tough loss to France in Euro 2024

Pepe was inconsolable after Portugal lost to France in the quarterfinal (Via IMAGO)

Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal were eliminated at the hands of Kylian Mbappe and co. in the second quarterfinal matchup at the 2024 Euros. A nail-biting 120 minutes followed by penalties ended in heartbreak for Portugal as France edged them 5-3 on penalties. Following the game, cameras spotted a distraught Pepe in tears as the Portugal captain did his best to console the veteran.

41-year-old Pepe left his heart and soul on the pitch in what was likely his ‘last’ major tournament for Portugal. The centre-back was lauded for his unbelievable display against French forwards, denying Les Bleus a single goal scoring opportunity. From last minute tackles to crucial interceptions, Pepe thoroughly enjoyed himself on the night.

YouTube video

However, it wasn’t meant to be for Roberto Martinez‘s side as France eliminated them on penalties. Pepe broke down in tears and hid his face in Cristiano Ronaldo‘s shoulder as he made his way to the dressing room.

FS Video

Fans sympathized with the veteran and considered themselves lucky to witness the legendary defender in action for ‘one last time’.

Cristiano Ronaldo ends final Euros campaign with zero goals in five games!

Cristiano Ronaldo had a tournament to forget in Germany. With his side going out to France on penalties, fans were forced to accept the reality that Portugal’s No.7 is nothing but a shadow of his former self. Despite playing a total of 486 minutes in this year’s competition, Ronaldo failed to find the net on a single occasion.

Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo ended his final Euros campaign with zero goals to his name (Via IMAGO)

The player took a total of 23 shots at the tournament, while managing to accumulate a total of 3.47 xG. However, 5 big chances missed, while failing to convert the most important chance against France did not add to the player’s legacy. Ronaldo also missed a crucial penalty against Slovenia in the Round of 16.

That being said, the 39-year-old did convert his penalty in the shootout against France, and converted his opening penalty with ease. Several fans criticized his decision to opt for the second kick despite winning the toss. Ronaldo had earlier announced that this will be the last European Championship of his career. The No.7 ends his Euros career as the man with the most goals and assists recorded in the competition.

In case you missed it :