CRISTIANO RONALDO’S selfless assist for Bruno Fernandes has a more sentimental reason behind it, fans have claimed.
Portugal comfortably beat Turkey 3-0 on Saturday to win Group F and qualify for the knockout stages at Euro 2024.
Cristiano Ronaldo laid on Bruno Fernandes’ goal rather than trying to score himselfRex
The pair embraced in a touching moment after the goalAlamy
Ronaldo was wearing green boots in the first half but switched for the second periodAP
Ronaldo’s boots for the second half had Fernandes’ daughter’s name Matilde on them
But many viewers were surprised to see Ronaldo, 39, pass up the opportunity to score his side’s third goal as he opted to lay it on a plate for ex-Manchester United team-mate Fernandes instead.
The pair had burst in behind the Turkish defence and had just the keeper to beat as Ronaldo played it across for Fernandes to finish into an empty net.
The assist was Ronaldo‘s eighth at the Euros, moving him joint-top in the competition’s history alongside Karel Poborsky.
But a more emotional theory has now emerged as to why Ronaldo opted to set up Fernandes, 29.
Eagle-eyed fans spotted that Fernandes’ daughters name, Matilde, was written on Ronaldo’s pink boots for the second half.
Viewers on Reddit have claimed the Real Madrid legend was lent the pair by Fernandes at half-time – as he was wearing green boots in the first period.
The two Portugal superstars then combined for their side’s third goal with Fernandes’ six-year-old daughter’s name on both their boots.
One fan said: “Ah that’s why he assisted Bruno for the third goal instead of just scoring by himself.”
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While another reacted: “Top 10 wholesome moments.”
Ronaldo, who has scored five goals more than any other player in Euros history, is yet to find the back of the net in Portugal’s opening two games of Euro 2024.
And he could be rested for Goncalo Ramos in their final group game against Georgia.
Portugal securing top spot in Group F means they will face third place in Groups A, B or C.
Heading into the final round of fixtures, they are Scotland, Albania and Slovenia.