Portugal boss Roberto Martinez blasted the breach of Hampden security which saw Cristiano Ronaldo confronted by a moronic pitch invader in Tuesday night’s Nations League clash.
The supporter climbed over the advertising boards and ran the length of the pitch towards Ronaldo, with the Portugal captain clearly alarmed.
The individual was seen to be carrying a smart phone and was intent on getting a selfie with the iconic striker, only to be belatedly escorted away by stewards.
Martinez insists it was unacceptable and dangerous, pointing out the fact that Ronaldo being targeted is now becoming a recurring theme.
Fearing for his player’s safety, Martinez said: ‘Unfortunately, this has happened too many times. It is not the first time.
A pitch invader is tackled after breaching the Hampden security in a bid to reach Ronaldo
‘During the European Championships in the summer, we had many, many occasions. Of course, we know what Cristiano brings to the game. We understand that.
‘But when you have someone jumping on the pitch with the wrong intentions, it is very dangerous. I was worried.’
Martinez was left frustrated in the end as his team were unable to find a way of breaching Scotland’s defence. He admitted that Portugal were wasteful with their final passes in the attacking third of the pitch, but paid tribute to the work of counterpart Steve Clarke in how he organised his team.
‘We played well and controlled the game,’ said the Spaniard. ‘We got to the final third many times but then just maybe didn’t make the right pass. We lacked some precision.
Ronaldo shows his frustration with a disappointing night for the Portuguese
The Portugal skipper was clearly unhappy at the end of the goalless draw with Scots
Managers Martinez and Clarke embrace at end of the match
‘But I would also like to give credit to Scotland. They played well and their goalkeeper also had a good performance.
‘I think Steve Clarke is building a national team that looks like a club. That is a big compliment. Everybody works for each other. They know the structure. They are brave when they have to be. They have quick attacks and some rapid players.
‘They beat the European champions [Spain] last year, not by coincidence or accident. Full credit to Steve Clarke and the technical staff. They are doing a great job.’
