Explosive outburst: Cristiano Ronaldo lashes out at referee following loss to Slovenia
Ronaldo received the nod in attack after being left out of the previous win over Sweden as they prepare for Euro 2024.
Slovenia capitalized late in the game, finding the net in the 72nd and 80th minutes to shock the visiting Portuguese side, who had maintained a flawless record since the 2022 World Cup.
Ronaldo’s frustration
Portugal dominated the possession but Ronaldo struggled to create meaningful opportunities against Slovenia's defence, led by Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak.
The referee's decisions further added to Ronaldo's frustration, as he felt ignored throughout the match.
As the final whistle blew, Ronaldo's pent-up anger boiled over. Cameras captured him shouting and gesturing angrily while walking off the pitch, much to the bewilderment of his teammates.
While walking off the pitch, cameras showed him shouting and throwing his arms around as bemused teammates watched on, as reported by beIN SPORTS on X.
Cristiano Ronaldo was not pleased at full-time... 👀#SLOPOR #CR7 #Ronaldo pic.twitter.com/vq7O91vlZI
— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) March 26, 2024
Heading towards the tunnel, Ronaldo directed his ire towards the assistant referee, having already voiced his displeasure to the main official earlier in the match.
Ronnie then continued off the field and into the dressing room as the dust settled on the result.
The loss to Slovenia proved to be a frustrating outing for Ronaldo and Portugal, marking a disappointing end to their previously unblemished record.