Security blocks a fan's head-first dive towards Cristiano Ronaldo at Euro 2024

Close call: Security intervenes as fan lunges at Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal's Euro 2024 loss to Georgia.

Cristiano Ronaldo experienced an evening filled with frustration and unexpected events during Portugal's recent match against Georgia in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. 

The Euro 2024 underdogs handed Portugal a surprising 2-0 defeat, and the night was further marred by a near-collision involving Ronaldo and an overzealous fan.

During the game, Ronaldo, a seasoned player for both Real Madrid and Manchester United, struggled to impact the game significantly and was substituted out in the 66th minute amid visible dissatisfaction. 

His performance was uncharacteristically quiet, failing to score and marking his first time not finding the net in the group stages of a major international tournament.

The situation escalated when a fan leaped from the stands at the Veltins Arena, coming perilously close to Ronaldo. 

Captured in a social media video, the fan almost collided with the football star, but a quick-acting steward intervened just in time to prevent any harm. 

Ronaldo was visibly shocked by the close call, adding to his night of vexation.

Further adding to Ronaldo's challenging night, he received a yellow card for vehemently protesting a decision when teammate Pedro Neto was denied a penalty. 

Despite the review and dismissal by VAR, Ronaldo continued to express his discontent.

Portugal's coach, Roberto Martinez, supported Ronaldo's reaction, emphasizing the inconsistencies in VAR decisions. 

"We weren't lucky and then the VAR wasn't consistent, because there's a situation with Cristiano. You can look back and give a penalty," Martinez stated, defending his team's performance and pointing out the missed penalty calls.

As Portugal looks ahead to the round of 16, Martinez remains optimistic but cautious, recognizing the need for better preparation.

"Today Georgia had the key moments, the second goal, all the goalkeeper's energy and performance. We need to congratulate them. And now it's time to look to the round of 16 and have the team better prepared," he concluded, focusing on the future challenges in the tournament.