All eyes had been on 39-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo in the build-up to Portugal’s European Championship opener against the Czech Republic. Yet, not for the first time in Germany, it was a youngster who stole the headlines.
‘Ronaldo 7’ shirts were everywhere in Leipzig before the game, as fans eagerly anticipated witnessing the veteran forward’s record appearance at a sixth European Championship. They undoubtedly hoped he would mark the occasion with a goal. However, the story unfolded differently. Francisco Conceicao, 18 years Ronaldo’s junior, snatched the dramatic winner as Portugal began their Group F campaign with a 2-1 victory.
Practically his first touch after coming on for his competitive debut, Conceicao’s goal was a highlight. Former England striker Alan Shearer praised his contribution on BBC One: “You are sent on to change the game and to do something. You have to make an impact as a sub.”
Ex-Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy added, “What a story. There was me saying: ‘What can you do in three minutes as a substitute?’ He got a bit of luck with the deflection, but he wasn’t going to miss that.”
It was a memorable moment for Conceicao, the son of former Portugal player Sergio Conceicao. His celebration, shared with a delighted Ronaldo, who punched the air and high-fived his teammates, was telling of the team spirit.!!!!
Portugal boss Roberto Martinez emphasized that the youngster deserved his winning moment. “Francisco is the ultimate example of earning it,” he said. “He deserves to be here and showed he is ready to help the group. He showed character and showed his worth because he was allowed to be here.”
While Ronaldo may not have scored, his presence continues to be a powerful symbol for the team. His leadership and the inspiration he provides to younger players like Conceicao are invaluable. As Portugal marches forward in the tournament, the blend of Ronaldo’s experience and the fresh energy of the next generation could prove to be a winning formula.
‘Ronaldo 7’ shirts were everywhere in Leipzig before the game, as fans eagerly anticipated witnessing the veteran forward’s record appearance at a sixth European Championship. They undoubtedly hoped he would mark the occasion with a goal. However, the story unfolded differently. Francisco Conceicao, 18 years Ronaldo’s junior, snatched the dramatic winner as Portugal began their Group F campaign with a 2-1 victory.
Practically his first touch after coming on for his competitive debut, Conceicao’s goal was a highlight. Former England striker Alan Shearer praised his contribution on BBC One: “You are sent on to change the game and to do something. You have to make an impact as a sub.”
Ex-Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy added, “What a story. There was me saying: ‘What can you do in three minutes as a substitute?’ He got a bit of luck with the deflection, but he wasn’t going to miss that.”
It was a memorable moment for Conceicao, the son of former Portugal player Sergio Conceicao. His celebration, shared with a delighted Ronaldo, who punched the air and high-fived his teammates, was telling of the team spirit.
Portugal boss Roberto Martinez emphasized that the youngster deserved his winning moment. “Francisco is the ultimate example of earning it,” he said. “He deserves to be here and showed he is ready to help the group. He showed character and showed his worth because he was allowed to be here.”
While Ronaldo may not have scored, his presence continues to be a powerful symbol for the team. His leadership and the inspiration he provides to younger players like Conceicao are invaluable. As Portugal marches forward in the tournament, the blend of Ronaldo’s experience and the fresh energy of the next generation could prove to be a winning formula.
