Bruno Fernandez celebrated most of the time, simply missing out on Ronaldo’s penalty.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandez has been the subject of light jokes following his premature celebration amid a clash with Denmark in the quarterfinals of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League.
Portugal ultimately won a 5-3 total after an extra time, but the early moments of the match attracted the attention of fans around the world.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s penalty mistake results in embarrassing Bruno Fernandez
Just six minutes after the game, Portugal was awarded a penalty and Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up to take the spot kick.
Given his impressive record from the penalty spot, expectations were high that he would convert.
Before Ronaldo hits the ball, Fernandez is seen raising his arms at the celebration, and it appears he is confident in his teammate’s score.
To his disappointment, Ronaldo produced one of his worst penalty attemptsallows Kasper Schmeichel of Denmark to make a comfortable save.
The moment went viral quickly, with some fans laughing Fernandez online, assuming his goal was certain.
Ronaldo reded himself in the second half goal.
Despite the early setback, Ronaldo made corrections in the second half. In the 72nd minute, Fernandez fired a powerful shot that hit the post before deflecting Schmichel. Ronaldo responded the fastest, slotting the equalizer home to level the tally score at 2-2, keeping his Portuguese qualification hope alive.
Considering that Ronaldo’s record from the penalty spot has modified 172 of his 204 attempts with a success rate of 84.8%, it’s understand why Fernandez had faith in his former Manchester United teammate.
The first leg of the tie also had a share of post-match dramas involving Ronaldo. Denmark’s Rasmus Hozilund scored his only goal in a 1-0 victory, and celebrated by performing Ronaldo’s iconic “SIU.” The gesture initially appeared as a provocation towards the five Ballon d’Or winners.
However, Hozilund later revealed that his celebration was not intended to make Ronaldo laugh, but instead was a homage to his idol.
With Portugal now moving forward in competitions, Fernandez and Ronaldo will aim for the next challenge in the international league.