Twelve years after losing the European final as favourites at home, Portugal won it as underdogs against the hosts; a nation that’s been hamstrung by its lack of strikers finally wins its first trophy thanks to a frontman who’d never scored a goal in a competitive game for his country; a team that couldn't finish any chances when the tournament started finally has the rub of the conversion green go its way.
An early injury for Cristiano Ronaldo rocked Portugal, but they held their nerve and came through in extra time to become European champions in the Stade de France
Cristiano Ronaldo proves again why he's the ultimate captain with inspiring Euro 2016 extra-time act
Ronaldo came off due to a knee injury in the first half, but returned to try and rally Portugal to a first major title from the sidelines.
Now, despite being injured, personally hurt and devastated at having to come off after 25 minutes, in the pictures above, the Real Madrid forward is again inspiring his troops.
And after carrying Portugal on his shoulders for the better part of a decade, Ronaldo’s teammates picked him up when he finally wasn't able to stand.
The Real Madrid forward lauded Portugal and felt they were worthy champions."Portugal have deserved this after many years of sacrifice. No one believed in us," Ronaldo said.
"I had already won everything with clubs. I lacked something with the national team."
Cristiano Ronaldo also shared a heartwarming embrace with his old boss Sir Alex Ferguson during the celebrations after winning Euro 2016 with Portugal.
Meanwhile, Jose Mourinho joined in the celebrations on Sunday night after Portugal clinched victory in the Euro 2016 final with a 1-0 win over France.
For our Portuguese boss, it’s a huge moment to be proud of as a fan and for Manchester United it certainly means we’ll have a happy Jose in the training ground on Monday morning bright and early.
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