Portugal talisman Cristiano Ronaldo borrowed teammate Bruno Fernandes' boots at half-time of Portugal's Euro 2024 group-stage game against Turkey, according to Record. The Selecao comfortably won the game 3-0 on Saturday, July 22.
Players change boots quite regularly in professional football, and it is nothing surprising. However, Ronaldo playing the entire second half against Turkey with boots personalized with the names of Fernandes' children did attract attention.
According to the report, one possible reason behind the impromptu change in boots was the fact that several players slipped on the Signal Iduna Park surface in the first half of the Portugal-Turkey game.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner possibly changed into cleats with longer studs to facilitate quick change in directions and better grip so that he doesn't slip and squander crucial opportunities.
Cristiano Ronaldo's selfless assist to Bruno Fernandes sealed the deal for Portugal against Turkey
Cristiano Ronaldo turned creator and produced a selfless assist to Bruno Fernandes during the 56th minute of Portugal's match against Turkey.
An immaculate through ball from the midfield opened the Turkish defense and set Ronaldo free, with Fernandes providing a horizontal passing option for the Al-Nassr superstar. Despite having only the goalkeeper to beat, Ronaldo chose to pass the ball to Fernandes, who found the back of the net to make it 3-0 for Portugal.
In doing so, Ronaldo reached yet another landmark in Euro 2024 as he became the joint-highest assist provider with Cezch Republic's Karel Poborsky. In 27 matches across six editions, the Portuguese talisman has provided eight assists.
The Real Madrid legend also holds the record for the most number of goals scored in the tournament's history - 14.
Following the win over Turkey, Portugal are atop Group F with two wins in two and are guaranteed a place in the Round of 16. The 2016 champions' last group-stage game will be against Georgia on Wednesday, June 26.