Former Manchester United and Real Madrid star Ronaldo regained his composure in time for the shoot-out and got a measure of revenge as he scored the opening kick to put Portugal on course for victory.
After aiming to Oblak’s left for his penalty during extra-time, he opted to go to the right in the shoot-out and squeezed his effort into the corner.
Holding up his hands to the Portugal supporters in a gesture of apology for his earlier miss, Ronaldo was clearly relieved as he walked back to join his teammates on the halfway line.
Three penalty saves from Portugal keeper Diogo Costa ensured Ronaldo’s redemption was complete as Roberto Martinez’s side booked a blockbuster quarter-final meeting with France.
“Even the strongest people have their (bad) days. I was at rock bottom … when the team needed me the most,” Ronaldo said in a post-match interview before bursting into tears again.
“First it was sadness and then it was joy, that’s what football gives you, inexplicable moments, a bit of everything,” Ronaldo said.
“I didn’t make a single mistake this year and when I needed something the most, Oblak saved it.
“Slovenia spent the whole game defending and when that happens, it all becomes difficult.”
Portugal boss Roberto Martinez saluted Ronaldo’s refusal to let his meltdown ruin his focus in the shoot-out.
“Ronaldo missed a penalty and then was decisive when he started the penalty shoot-out, he paved the way,” Martinez said.
“It was a victory for unity, from the dressing room. Cristiano is our captain and he showed that in life and in football there are difficult moments and we can’t give up.
“We have to keep going and it was a demonstration of what to do when things aren’t going well.”
