Euro 2024: Diogo Costa saves Ronaldo's blushes as Portugal survive Slovenia scare

Goalkeeper Diogo Costa was the hero in a night of high drama as Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal and Slovenia went head-to-head in a thrilling EURO 2024 round of 16 clash at the Frankfurt Arena. 

After a nerve-wracking penalty shootout on Monday night, Costa saved three remarkable spot kicks to help the 2016 winners secure a spot in the quarterfinals following a 3-0 win with nothing to separate both teams after extra time.

The match got off to a tense start, with Portugal piling on the pressure early against Slovenia making their debut at this level. 

Ronaldo came close to breaking the deadlock with a ferocious free-kick, but Slovenia's goalkeeper, Jan Oblak, produced a strong save to keep the scores level.

Slovenia had their best chance of the game as the second half got underway, with Benjamin Šeško drilling a low effort just wide of the post. 

However, Portugal's goalkeeper, Costa, was alert to the danger, making a crucial save to deny the Slovenian striker.

The match went into extra time, and Ronaldo had the chance to give Portugal the lead from the penalty spot. But Oblak, the Atletico Madrid shot-stopper, kept his cool and made a superb save to deny the Portuguese captain, who broke down in tears.

The drama continued, as Šeško found himself through on goal in the dying moments of extra time, but Costa produced a fantastic save with his feet to keep the scores level.

Ultimately, the match was decided by a penalty shootout, and it was Portugal who held their nerve, inspired by the brilliant Costa, converting all of their spot-kicks to seal victory and book their place in the quarterfinals, where they will face France.