The Real Madrid star, who has twice missed from the spot for his club this season, saw his second-half effort saved by Vladislav Stoyanov as the visitors held on for a surprise win.
ADVERTISEMENT
Fernando Santos defends Cristiano Ronaldo penalty miss
Portugal boss Fernando Santos has defended Cristiano Ronaldo after he missed a penalty in Friday's 1-0 friendly defeat to Bulgaria.
___4848902___https:______static.pulse.com.gh___webservice___escenic___binary___4848902___2016___3___26___14___cristiano-ronaldo-cropped_g7cbv8xrqlql1lt9iqal4z6xo_2
Recommended articles
Portugal were unable to make their dominance of the match count against the inspired Stoyanov, but Santos insists he has no concerns that Ronaldo's form will desert him at Euro 2016.
"In the national team, and the clubs where he's been, Cristiano has always been a reference - always worth 40, 50 goals per season," Santos told a media conference.
"He didn't score [against Bulgaria] but he's reserving his goals for the Euros.
ADVERTISEMENT
"We created many chances but we couldn't score. If we didn't create then, yes, I would be apprehensive."
Bulgaria boss Ivaylo Petev was thrilled with his side's victory, which came courtesy of a 19th-minute goal from 31-year-old debutant Marcelinho, but he is backing Portugal as potential winners in France this year despite their travails in attack.
"It was an extremely prestigious game for us against a quality opponent," he said. "We tried to take every opportunity to reverse the Portugal attack using our counter-attacks. However, Portugal had opportunities and we owe this victory to our goalkeeper.
"I hope that Portugal get as far as possible in the Euros. They are capable of being champions."
JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!
ADVERTISEMENT
Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:
Email: eyewitness@pulse.com.gh
Recommended articles
The Intersection of Enthusiasm: United Kingdom's local motorsports and Ghana's rising stars
Video: Watch Fatawu Issahaku’s hat trick in Leicester City’s win against Southampton
RTU suspends coach Abdulai Mumin over match-fixing allegations
Hearts of Oak are better off playing with an empty post than using Richard Attah – Taylor
Sorry for causing you a lot of pain – Dr. Prosper Ogum apologizes to Kotoko fans
Govt hasn't paid us – African Games gold medalist Winnifred Ntumi 'cries' out
Dumsor is part of the reasons why we lost against Legon Cities – Hearts of Oak coach
Black Stars midfielder Daniel Kofi Kyereh to miss rest of season due to injury
