The Portuguese national team secured a decisive victory over the Turkish national team on Saturday, advancing to the Round of 16 in UEFA Euro 2024. Following the match, a video surfaced showing Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo apparently ignoring Turkish talent Arda Guler. Digital platform pioneers interpreted this moment differently.
In the video, Guler, a young player from Real Madrid, is seen extending his hand towards Ronaldo, who appears to continue past him while engaged in conversation with the referee.
Opinions varied on whether Ronaldo intentionally ignored Guler or if his focus on speaking with the referee caused the apparent disregard. This match marked the first encounter between Ronaldo, appearing in his sixth European Championship, and Guler, a prominent talent who impressed in his debut against Georgia despite initial injury concerns that limited his role in Italy coach Vicenzo Montella’s lineup, eventually entering in the second half.
Turkish fans hold high hopes for Guler, who had a strong season with Real Madrid despite injury setbacks early on. He notably returned in top form during the latter stages of the Spanish League, contributing four goals in as many matches as his team, Real Madrid, secured victories.
Turkey’s next challenge in the group stage’s final round is against the Czech Republic, where they aim for a second victory to secure advancement to the tournament’s next stage. Additionally, depending on other results, Turkey could still qualify as one of the top four third-placed teams in their respective groups.
