Euro 2024
France Advances To Semi-finals After Victory Over Portugal
France secured their spot in the UEFA European Championships semi-finals after a nail-biting penalty shootout victory over Portugal in Hamburg.
The match began with Portugal’s goalkeeper, Diogo Costa, showcasing his skills early on, making a crucial stop to deny Theo Hernandez’s long-range shot. Despite Portugal’s dominance in possession during the first half, clear-cut opportunities were hard to come by for both teams.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes came close to breaking the deadlock for Portugal, but their efforts were thwarted by the French defense. Kylian Mbappe, initially quiet in the match, came to life in the second half, testing Costa with a curling effort.
As the game progressed, both teams had chances to score, with near misses and great saves keeping the score level.
Portugal’s Vitinha and France’s Randal Kolo Muani were denied by excellent goalkeeping and defending, ensuring the match remained tense and finely balanced.
Extra time brought more drama, with Mbappe’s substitution adding a twist to the game, as both teams pushed for a decisive goal.
Nuno Mendes threatened to score for Portugal late in extra time, but Mike Maignan’s crucial save ensured the match would be decided by a penalty shootout.
In the shootout, France held their nerve, converting all their spot-kicks, while Joao Felix hit the post for Portugal, sealing France’s place in the semi-finals. The stage is now set for a thrilling encounter between France and Spain in the next round.
