The routine hasn’t changed. Seven steps back, one to the side. Feet anchored in the grass, legs apart, determined gaze, a deep exhale. Everyone has moved away from the ball, no point trying to start the outline of a negotiation. Routine, that’s the word. Except that the threat is no longer quite the same. When Cristiano Ronaldo prepares to take a free kick, at the age of 39, his opponents are less afraid, a feeling that spreads among the general public, mocking or sometimes embarrassed when they saw the Portuguese captain pounce on the slightest opportunity against Slovenia (0-0, 3-0 on penalties), Monday in the round of 16 of the Euro. Result: four free kicks attempted, only one on target, none in the net.
