Cristiano Ronaldo surprised the host broadcaster at Euro 2024 after opting to allow Bruno Fernandes to take a free kick during Portugal’s quarter-final with France.
Ronaldo had been slammed by fans during Portugal’s last-16 match for his dominance in taking their free kicks, despite rarely troubling the goal.
The 39-year-old had particularly drawn ire when he attempted to score from an almost-impossible angle out wide against Slovenia.
Ronaldo relented during the first half of Portugal’s clash with France, opting to pass up a free kick from the edge of box after a discussion with Bruno Fernandes.
His decision appeared to catch out the cameraman with the host broadcaster focusing on Ronaldo’s preparations to take the free kick.
The cameraman focused on Cristiano Ronaldo as he prepared to take a free kick for Portugal
Bruno Fernandes took the free kick forcing the host broadcaster to quickly switch away
Fernandes and Ronaldo appeared to have a discussion over who would take the free kick
As the camera focused on Ronaldo’s face it quickly panned back as after Fernandes had taken the set piece.
The Portugal and Man United star’s effort ultimately floated harmlessly over the top of France’s goal.
Ronaldo would resume free kick duties in the second half after Fernandes was substituted with the quarter-final remaining goalless.
The veteran droved his latest free kick at Euro 2024 into the French wall, extending his unwanted record.
Ronaldo has now scored just one free kick from 61 direct attempts in international football.
His only success came against Spain during the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Ronaldo has had a miserable record of taking free kicks at international level for Portugal
Fernandes curled effort drifted over the top of the France goal as the match remained level
Ronaldo resumed free kick duties in the second half and blasted a shot into the France wall