Despite an impressive performance, Bruno Fernandes insisted he made “a lot of mistakes” during Portugal’s victory over Czechia at Euro 2024.
Francisco Conceicao’s 92nd-minute goal sealed Portugal’s 2-1 comeback in Leipzig on Tuesday night.
Although they struggled to be clinical, earning Cristiano Ronaldo some criticism, there was much to admire in the way Roberto Martínez’s team dominated the game.
At the center of all this was Fernandes, with the attacking midfielder playing a slightly deeper role than usual in a 3-4-3 that did not feature natural defensive midfielders.
However, the Manchester United captain shone, creating two chances, taking two shots, completing 88 per cent of his passes, making eight crosses (the most of any player) and winning 100 per cent of his tackles.
However, the 29-year-old admitted he was careless at times, telling reporters after the match: “We made a lot of mistakes in the first half, especially me.”
‘Taking risks has two sides of the coin. I am aware of this. Midfielders take more risks.
“But also once I can pass the ball, I have a lot of quality in front of me to score a goal.
‘So I’m not worried about making mistakes, because it’s part of the game. “I have the team supporting me, because they know that that is one of my characteristics.”
One of the most creative players in the Premier League, Fernandes’ performance against the Czech Republic received high praise from former England and Liverpool star Danny Murphy.
“Bruno Fernandes digs in, uses his skill and tries to find an opening – he’s been good,” Murphy said while commentating on the match for BBC Sport.
‘Fernandes has used his energy well and always demands the ball and tries to impact the game.
“He is trying to be the one to do something special, it is crucial for Portugal.”
Fernandez and company. He will hope for a more certain result in Portugal’s next Group F match against Türkiye on Saturday.
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