Amazing Cristiano Ronaldo impresses coach

Portugal coach Fernando Santos hailed Cristiano Ronaldo’s performance as “amazing” despite his failure to score as his side progressed to the Euro semifinals with a 5-3 penalty shootout win over Poland.

Ronaldo is just one goal off matching Michel Platini’s record of nine in Euro finals, but endured a frustrating night in front of goal during the 120 minutes in Marseille.

The Real Madrid star did net from the penalty spot in the shootout and Santos reserved special praise for Ronaldo and his club teammate Pepe. “Pepe and Cristiano played an amazing game, sometimes people undervalue them,” said Santos.

“People focus on Ronaldo because he has to score, but he played amazing, he is a great captain. Pepe was amazing today too.”

However, Santos refused suggestions Renato Sanches is ready to inherit Ronaldo’s role as leader of the national team. “(An era) before and after Renato is an exaggeration. He played a great game, but he is still growing,” Santos said.