by An enthusiastic fan invaded Portugal’s training field during the final preparations for their Euro 2024 campaign, grabbing Cristiano Ronaldo.
Portugal’s head coach, Roberto Martinez, held an open training session in Gutersloh, Germany, allowing the public to witness Ronaldo and his team before their Group F opener in Leipzig.
Over 50,000 supporters applied for the 6,000 available tickets, leading to chaotic scenes.
A fan jumped over barriers and sprinted onto the field, hugging Ronaldo forcibly before being apprehended. Ronaldo allowed the fan to take a selfie but raised his arms to appeal for calm from the crowd.
Several spectators rushed to the pitch, with Portugal goalkeeper Jose Sa tackling one intruder before he could advance further.
Martinez plans to leverage Portugal’s anticipated strong support during the tournament, largely due to Ronaldo’s increasing popularity as he enters the final stages of his career.
The only team to win all ten of its qualification matches was Portugal. They will face the Czech Republic after entering the competition as one of the favorites. Although some observers believe Ronaldo would be more successful off the bench, he is expected to play a significant role.
The 39-year-old is set to compete in his sixth European Championship, already holding the record for the most international appearances.
Ronaldo, at 39, expressed his appreciation for playing football year after year, stating that it is a gift to enjoy it after age 35.
Ronaldo moved to the Saudi Pro League’s Al-Nassr eighteen months ago. Following the dissolution of his previous stint in Europe with Manchester United due to bad form and animosity,.
He excelled in qualifying and is optimistic about securing another Euros title, despite being injured and missing most of the final against France in 2016.
He believes that this generation deserves to win a significant competition and hopes to progress further in the semifinals.
