Despite an impressive performance, Bruno Fernandes insisted he made ‘a lot of mistakes’ during Portugal’s Euro 2024 win over Czechia.
Francisco Conceicao’s 92nd minute winner sealed Portugal’s 2-1 comeback win in Leipzig on Tuesday night.
Though they struggled for clinicalness, which earned Cristiano Ronaldo some criticism, there was much to admire about the way Roberto Martinez’s side dominated the game.
At the heart of this was Fernandes, with the attacking midfielder playing in a slightly deeper role than usual in a 3-4-3 which featured no natural defensive midfielders.
Nevertheless, the Manchester United captain starred, creating two chances, had two shots, completed 88 per cent of his passes, had eight crosses (the most of any player) and won 100 per cent of his tackles.
Yet, the 29-year-old admitted he was sloppy at times, telling reporters post-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. The 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 pulling for me, because they know that’s one of my characteristics.’
One of the most creative players in the Premier League, Fernandes’ performance against Czechia received high praise from former England and Liverpool star Danny Murphy.
‘Bruno Fernandes probing, using his skill and trying to find an opening – he’s been good,’ Murphy said while commentating on the game for BBC Sport.
‘Fernandes has used his energy well and is always demanding the ball and trying to impact the game.
‘He is trying to be the one who does something special, he is crucial to Portugal.’
Fernandes and co. will be hoping for a more assured result in Portugal’s next Group F game against Turkey on Saturday.
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