Cristiano Ronaldo compared to Homelander after Euro 2024 performance

Cristiano Ronaldo compared to Homelander for insisting on taking free kicks despite repeated failures at Euro 2024.

Cristiano Ronaldo's performance in Portugal's penalties victory over Slovenia at Euro 2024 has drawn comparisons to the supervillain Homelander from the TV series "The Boys," due to his insistence on taking free kicks despite repeated failures.

Cristiano Ronaldo saw the funny side 😂#BBCEuros #Euro2024 #PORSVN pic.twitter.com/aKGYQP1GLM

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 1, 2024

During the crucial round of 16 knockout match, the 39-year-old Ronaldo, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers, missed several scoring opportunities, including a penalty in the 105th minute. This left the five-time Ballon d'Or winner visibly upset. Ronaldo's struggles continued with three failed free-kick attempts, including one from a difficult angle that sailed high and wide, provoking jeers from Slovenia fans. To date, Ronaldo has scored only one free kick out of 60 taken at major international tournaments.

Ronaldo justifying that freekick in the dressing room pic.twitter.com/j7G5XkuKIz

— Tobes (@TikiTokaMate) July 1, 2024

It was Ronaldo's determination to take every free kick within his perceived shooting range that led to internet comparisons with Homelander, a character known for his authoritarian rule and unchecked power. In "The Boys," Homelander's dominance leaves his team members in fear and unable to challenge his decisions.

Ronaldo when Bruno says “I should be taking them” pic.twitter.com/EfmfFzsa01 https://t.co/OWoR1zEiVB

— Killua 🇩🇪🇪🇸 (@OBolarin11) July 1, 2024

In the Portugal-Slovenia match, other capable free-kick takers, such as Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes, were not considered for these attempts. Observers noted that "there is no debate over who takes free kicks in the team," highlighting Ronaldo's central role in such situations.

Despite his missed chances, Ronaldo did contribute to Portugal's victory by scoring in the penalty shootout. However, it was goalkeeper Diogo Costa's heroics, saving three penalties, that were pivotal in the win.

As Portugal prepares to face France in the quarter-finals on July 5, Ronaldo is expected to maintain his dominant approach to free kicks and penalties, hoping for better success.