Portugal can win 'without Ronaldo' - press

14 June 2012 10:46

Portugal's press on Thursday hailed the national side's last-gasp 3-2 victory against Denmark to kick-start their Euro 2012 campaign, but reflected on star player Cristiano Ronaldo's failure to shine.

"Portugal won 'without' Ronaldo, who missed two unbelievable chances," said the sports daily A Bola, while its competitor Record headlined its front page "Thanks Varela", referring to substitute Silvestre Varela, who scored the winner.

The Diario de Noticias added: "Portuguese character shown without Ronaldo: an 87th minute goal gave Portugal a precious victory during a match where Pepe and Nani played leading roles and made up for Ronaldo's misses."

The Correio da Manha also said that Wednesday's match "renewed hope" of the team making the knock-out stages, after Portugal lost to Germany 1-0 in the opening match.

Source: AFP