Portugal was in the EURO 2016 final against France when it suffered an early setback with Cristiano Ronaldo going off injured. Nani, who was on the pitch, has now recalled the players’ reaction and how it helped them win.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Early Exit Motivated Portugal Players, Says Nani
Portugal had never won a major international trophy and had a golden opportunity in 2016 when they reached the EURO final against France. The squad was in strong form throughout the tournament but faced the favorites.
They entered the match as underdogs, but matters worsened for Fernando Santos’ side when Ronaldo was forced out early. A strong tackle by Dimitri Payet injured the Portugal captain’s knee, though he attempted to continue.
The forward played for another eight minutes before leaving the pitch in tears, unable to move freely. Nani spoke to Four Four Two this week, recalling the captain’s exit and how the team used it as motivation.
The former Manchester United winger admitted the players were initially confused and frustrated after losing their key player so early. He believes the shock substitution helped unite the squad, as they wanted to win the trophy for Ronaldo.
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The match went into extra time, where Eder scored the lone goal to secure a 1-0 victory. Nani reflected on the final, saying: “A mixture of concern and frustration. Cristiano was fundamental for us. His presence on the pitch gave us enormous security — he always kept opponents on edge.
“When he went off, we thought, ‘We’ve lost our best player, what’s going to happen now?’ But at the same time, it also gave us strength. We came together even more as a team and fought for him.”
Nani did not score in the final but had netted a crucial goal in the semifinal. He helped Portugal defeat Wales 2-0 and admitted he was overwhelmed with emotion after scoring.
“I celebrated with so much emotion — representing Portugal is always special. Scoring in a semi-final and helping the team reach the final was indescribable. Then, to be part of history when we lifted the trophy, that’s something I’ll never forget. We remember that triumph with pride, because it meant so much — for the team, the country, and our careers.”
Nani retired from international football in 2017, finishing with 24 goals in 111 appearances. Since then, Portugal has gone on to win the UEFA Nations League twice, in 2019 and 2025.
