Bruno Fernandes has revealed some lesser-known truths about Cristiano Ronaldo, emphasizing how the football legend always prioritizes the team’s success over personal achievements.

Ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 match at Euro 2024, Fernandes spoke about Ronaldo’s unwavering focus on the team’s success rather than just personal glory.

Although Ronaldo has yet to score a goal in Euro 2024, the 39-year-old superstar provided an assist in the 3-0 victory over Turkey in the group stage. In the face of criticism directed at Ronaldo, Fernandes highlighted how CR7’s actions demonstrate that he puts Portugal’s interests above his own.

“For Cristiano Ronaldo, the most important thing is the team’s success,” Fernandes said in a recent press conference. “For him, [the assist to me in the Turkey match] was the best decision at that moment, but if he had taken the shot, it would have been a similar outcome.”

Portugal is considered the stronger side in this upcoming clash, despite Slovenia’s 2-0 victory over Roberto Martinez’s team in a friendly match back in March.

“Play or give up,” Martinez said. “It’s never easy in the Euros, but we are ready. Slovenia is well-organized and highly competitive, so we need to be at our best. The tournament starts now. Portugal is fresh and we are prepared.”

Fernandes also warned that Portugal needs to remain “balanced” if they want to reach the quarter-finals following their recent defeat to Slovenia: “We want to win every match, which means reaching the final and winning it.”

“No team wants to go home early, especially Portugal, because we know our quality. We were beaten by them in a friendly, which makes us cautious. They have defended well and will continue to do so, but we need to find and will find solutions.”

The match between Portugal and Slovenia will take place at 7:00 PM on July 1 (UK time).