West Ham United favourite James Collins was charged with shackling Cristiano Ronaldo as Wales took on Portugal at Euro 2016.
Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo in action with Wales’ James Collins
The big semi-final clash was billed as Gareth Bale vs Cristiano Ronaldo but Collins was the man who had to go head-to-head with the Real Madrid superstar.
Shorn of Tottenham Hotspur’s Ben Davies, Chris Coleman brought in West Ham’s Ginger Pele – as he is affectionately known by Hammers fans – for what was his first start in four months for club or country.
Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo in action with Wales’ James Collins
Collins was Wales’ best player in the first half
He was the Red Dragons’ best player in the first half as time and again he repelled Ronaldo’s probing or thwarted him in the air.
Collins looked disappointed when he was substituted midway through the second half with Wales chasing the game.
And Ronaldo ended the match with a goal and somewhat fortunate assist as Portugal won 2-0 to advance to the final where they will face either Germany or France.
Wales’ James Collins and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo in action
Twitter reacts to Ginger Pele vs Ronaldo
But what did the fans think of Collins’ performance?
Wales’ James Collins is substituted by Jonathan Williams
Unlucky Collins did himself proud
Collins was so good during Slaven Bilic’s first season as boss that the club handed him a new two-year deal.
He lost his place through injury for the run-in but was still selected for Wales’ Euro squad which speaks volumes for his character and ability.
The Welsh warrior certainly did not disgrace himself in the semi-final and it was understandable he looked frustrated at being substituted as it was mistakes from James Chester and Ashley Williams which sealed their fate.
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