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Journalism of Courage
A fan rushed onto the pitch during Portugal’s Euro 2024 Qualifier against Bosnia and proceeded to hug Cristiano Ronaldo before bowing at his feet and lifting him up.
The incident occurred during the second half of the match when the man evaded security and greeted Ronaldo who also hugged him back. After lifting up the football icon, the man did Ronaldo’s iconic Siuuu celebration in front of him and ran away from security again.
Meanwhile, Portugal smothered Bosnia and Herzegovina 3-0 for a third win in as many qualifiers for the 2024 European Championship.
Midfielder Bruno Fernandes scored twice and set up Bernardo Silva to break the deadlock in minute 44 of an evenly disputed first half. Fernandes put the result beyond doubt with goals in the 77th and stoppage time.
Ronaldo made his 199th appearance for Portugal but didn’t add to the men’s record of 122 international goals. Portugal leads Group J with nine points, two more than Slovakia, which beat Iceland 2-1.
This was the third game since former Belgium coach Roberto Martínez took over following the departure of Fernando Santos after the World Cup. Portugal beat minnows Luxembourg and Liechtenstein in Martínez’s first two games. His team has yet to concede a goal on his watch.
Silva put the hosts in front when he chipped on-rushing goalie Nikola Vasilj after Fernandes played him clear. Ronaldo played a part in the opener by making a pass to Fernandes just before his assist.
Bosnia and Herzegovina, however, could have easily been ahead by halftime thanks to its disciplined defending that held Portugal in check until Silva’s goal.
But when a cross fell to an unmarked Edin Dzeko in the 30th, he volleyed it well over the crossbar of Diogo Costa’s goal.
Fernandes ensured the three points when he was left unmarked to use a powerful header and turn in Ruben Neves’ cross.
