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Almer happy as Ronaldo struggles

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Austria goalkeeper Robert Almer revelled in a "special day" after denying Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal in a 0-0 draw at Euro 2016.
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Austria goalkeeper Robert Almer revelled in a "special day" after denying Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal in a 0-0 draw at Euro 2016.

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Almer was a giant in goal, making a string of impressive saves and watching Ronaldo miss his penalty in the Group F clash at the Parc des Princes on Saturday.

The 32-year-old keeper was singled out by coach Marcel Koller on a night when Austria had to survive long periods of pressure.

And speaking afterwards, Almer said: "I'm happy.

"Special day, for me it's good to see I also can save balls from Cristiano and I think it gives a little bit more self-confidence."

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It was a forgettable night for Ronaldo, who made his record-breaking 128th Portugal appearance.

His 79th-minute spot-kick hit the post before his header was correctly disallowed for offside in Paris.

Asked if he sensed Ronaldo's frustration, Almer added: "Not really.

"In the game you're so focused you don't see such things but maybe it helped me a little bit at the penalty that he didn't score."

The stalemate earned Austria their first point of the European Championship following the 2-0 loss to group leaders Hungary.

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Austria now face Iceland on Wednesday with qualification well and truly possible.

"For us that's the chance to go to the next round so hopefully we can win," Almer said.

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