Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo insists that winning the Euro 2016 title was ‘one of the happiest moments of his career’ following a 1-0 victory over France in the finals.

Portugal was crowned Euro 2016 champions after they defeated France in the final on Sunday in Paris.

The Portuguese side got off to a rocky start as Ronaldo was substituted in the 25th minute after sustaining a knee injury. But striker Eder scored in extra-time to hand his side the victory.

Ronaldo says he is delighted to have finally clinched the European championship, insisting that his side were deserved winners of the title.

‘I’m so happy. This is something I have wanted for a long time now, ever since 2004. The Portuguese people deserve this, our players deserve this,’ Ronaldo said

‘Unfortunately, things didn’t go well for me but I’ve always believed in these players. They have quality and ability.’

The Real Madrid superstar ranked Sunday’s victory among the top moments of his ultra-successful career.

‘This is one of the happiest moments of my career. I’ve always said I wanted to win a trophy with the national team and make history,’ he added.

‘I’d like to thank my team-mates, our coach, our wider team at this Euro, and the Portuguese people cheering us on. This is a unique moment for me. It’s unforgettable.’

The win brought Portugal their first major tournament title 12 years after the Portuguese side fell in the Euro 2004 final on home soil to unlikely champions Greece.

PHOTO: Reuters