Published: 17:09 EDT, 5 July 2024 | Updated: 17:18 EDT, 5 July 2024

View comments

Cristiano Ronaldo surprised the host broadcaster at Euro 2024 after opting to allow Bruno Fernandes to take a free kick during Portugal's quarter-final with France.

Ronaldo had been slammed by fans during Portugal's last-16 match for his dominance in taking their free kicks, despite rarely troubling the goal.

The 39-year-old had particularly drawn ire on social media when he attempted to score from an almost-impossible angle out wide against Slovenia.

Ronaldo relented during the first half of Portugal's clash with France, opting to pass up the chance to take a free kick from the edge of box.

The forward was seen in discussion with Fernandes as the pair weighed up the set piece.

The cameraman focused on Cristiano Ronaldo as he prepared to take a free kick for Portugal

]]]]>]]>The decision appeared to catch out the cameraman with the host broadcaster focusing on Ronaldo's preparations to take the free kick.

As the camera focused on Ronaldo's face it quickly panned back after Fernandes had struck the ball.

The Portugal and Man United star's effort ultimately floated harmlessly over the top of France's goal.

Ronaldo would resume free kick duties in the second half after Fernandes was substituted with the quarter-final remaining goalless.

Ronaldo has had a miserable record of taking free kicks at international level for Portugal

The veteran droved his latest free kick at Euro 2024 into the French wall, extending his unwanted record.

Ronaldo has now scored just one free kick from 61 direct attempts in international football.

His only success came against Spain during the 2018 World Cup in Russia.