Cristiano Ronaldo’s free-kick record for Portugal revealed after Euro 2024 misses

Cristiano Ronaldo has been criticised over his wayward free-kicks for Portugal at Euro 2024 (AP)

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored just one free-kick out of 60 attempts for Portugal at major tournaments.

The 39-year-old is currently playing in his 11th major tournament for Portugal at Euro 2024 having made his first appearance at the European Championship in 2004.

Despite Portugal having two solid alternative set-piece takers in Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva, Ronaldo continues to command all free-kicks within shooting range for the national side.

But in Portugal’s Euro 2024 last-16 tie against Slovenia on Monday evening, Ronaldo did his free-kick record no favours as he squandered three attempts at goal.

Those misses mean Ronaldo’s only goal from a free-kick for Portugal at a major tournament was his superb effort in the 3-3 draw against Spain at the World Cup in 2018.

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored just one free-kick for Portugal in 11 major tournaments (Shutterstock)

In comparison, Lionel Messi has scored five goals from 53 free-kicks for Argentina at major tournaments.

In an overall career comparison, Ronaldo has scored 63 goals and is two behind Messi, although the Argentine boasts a far superior conversion rate.

According to Opta’s statistics, at European club level since 2006, Ronaldo has scored 31 free-kicks from 492 attempts, which is a conversion rate of 6.3 per cent.

Messi, meanwhile, has scored 41 goals from 456 free-kick attempts – a conversion rate of nine per cent.

Despite receiving criticism over his wayward free kicks against Slovenia, Ronaldo was praised after he stepped up to take Portugal’s first penalty in their shootout win.

Ronaldo was reduced to tears after his penalty in the first half of extra time was saved by Jan Oblak but Portugal head coach, Roberto Martinez, believes the 39-year-old set an example of how to show resilience after a setback.

‘First and foremost I think he is a constant example for us, the only player that has ever played in six European Championships,’ Martinez said.

‘He is happy taking that responsibility and has got that belief. I thanked him for being the way he is, for caring for the group. I was certain that he would be the first penalty taker and show us the way to take victory.

‘I think we’re all very proud of our captain. Our dressing room was all delighted. I think he gave us all a lesson. Life and football gives you difficult moments and the way he reacted shows why we are so proud in Portuguese football.’

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