Portugal have qualified for the last 16 of EURO 2024 after beating Slovenia 3-0 on penalties following a goalless draw.

Despite Portugal having 72% possession and 20 shots, they were largely ineffective in the area, creating just one big chance in the entire encounter. For Bruno Fernandes, it was largely a night to forget. Having had 120 touches, the Manchester United captain was one of Portugal’s most important players throughout the 120 minutes, but he also had some disappointing aspects.

Completing just 65 of his 85 passes with an accuracy of 76%, Fernandes’ passes were not up to his usual standard and he completed just 5 of his 13 crosses. Fernandes was less directly involved in the аttаck, failing to take a single shot on target and completing just one dribble all evening. In particular, he lost possession an astonishing 40 times.

Bruno had a controversial performance.

Physically, the Portuguese struggled against the Slovenian squad. He won just four of his 13 duels on the ground while losing both of his aerial duels.

On the positive side, he was heavily involved in creating attacking opportunities for his team, making four key passes and completing eight of his 14 long balls. Fernandes continued to show great effort, not only when holding the ball but also dropping back to help out defensively.

Fernandes made three tackles, which was no easy feat against a tight Slovenia side. He also made one clearance and one interception.

Despite mixed performances throughout the match, Fernandes proved his worth by stepping up when his country needed him most. After Cristiano Ronaldo’s penalty in extra time was saved by Jan Oblak, Fernandes could not have been blamed if he felt nervous about stepping up to take Portugal’s second penalty in the shootout. However, the Manchester United playmaker kept his cool and slotted the ball into the bottom left corner, leaving the goalkeeper misjudged and Portugal 2-0 up.

Bruno comforts Ronaldo.

While many aspects of Fernandes’ play were not up to his usual standards, he certainly played a big part in winning the game for Portugal and supporting his team when they needed him most.

Portugal will now face their first big-nаme opponent of the summer tournament, taking on France in the quarter-finals. Les Bleus are the favourites to win