Euro Cup 2024: Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed by a fan in chaotic public training session
Xtra Time Web Desk: Cristiano Ronaldo experienced an unexpected encounter during Portugal's open training session in Gutersloh, Germany, as the team prepared for its Euro 2024 campaign. Amidst heightened excitement and a crowd of over 6,000 fans—selected from more than 50,000 applicants—a fan breached security, sprinted onto the field, and hugged Ronaldo before being promptly apprehended by security guards. Ronaldo, maintaining his composure, allowed the fan to take a selfie and then gestured to the crowd to remain calm.
The session, held ahead of Portugal's Group F opener against the Czech Republic in Leipzig, saw multiple pitch invasions. In one instance, goalkeeper Jose Sa tackled an intruder before they could reach the players. Despite the disruptions, head coach Roberto Martinez aims to leverage the robust support for Portugal, largely fueled by Ronaldo's enduring popularity as he nears the twilight of his illustrious career.
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Portugal, having won all 10 of their qualifying matches, is considered a strong contender for the tournament title. Ronaldo, playing in his sixth European Championship, holds the records for the most international appearances (207) and goals (130) by any male player. While some pundits suggest that Ronaldo might be more effective coming off the bench, he is expected to play a significant role in Portugal's quest for glory.
"I know I don't have many years of football left," Ronaldo told reporters this week. "It is a gift to play year after year after age 35. I am 39 and every year is about enjoying things."
Ronaldo moved to Al-Nassr of the Saudi Pro League 18 months ago and appears to have been rejuvenated by the move, after his last spell in Europe with Manchester United fell apart amid acrimony and poor form.
Le gardien du Portugal, José Sá, est obligé d’intervenir à l’entraînement du Portugal face aux spectateurs envahisseurs. #EURO2024 ????????????
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) June 14, 2024
pic.twitter.com/V9hMB4xphY
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He was superb in qualifying and holds high hopes that he can add another Euros title after winning the event in 2016, albeit with getting injured and missing most of the final against France.
"I believe that this generation deserves to win a competition of this magnitude," he said. "Semifinals? I hope we can go further.
"We have to go step by step, live in the moment, be calm, work as well as we have until now, believe that it is possible. We know it's a short competition, but the team is ready."
