France emerged victorious against Portugal in a tense penalty shoot-out during the Euro 2024 quarterfinals on Friday, following a goalless draw after 120 minutes of play. This win secures their spot in the semi-finals, where they will face Spain.
The match, held in Hamburg, saw both teams struggle to create clear scoring opportunities throughout regulation time. The deadlock continued into extra time, making it an uneventful 120 minutes of football.
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The decisive moment came in the penalty shoot-out, where Portugal’s Joao Felix was the only player to miss his spot-kick. France’s Theo Hernandez confidently netted the winning penalty, sending his team through to the next round.
Despite the lack of goals, the match had its moments of intensity. Cristiano Ronaldo successfully converted his penalty, but the 39-year-old, playing in what might be his final major tournament, failed to score during open play for the first time in his illustrious career. France’s goalkeeper, Mike Maignan, played a crucial role, making vital saves to deny Portugal’s Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha, keeping his team in the game.
France’s best chance came when Eduardo Camavinga shot wide, missing a significant opportunity to break the deadlock.
Kylian Mbappe, still recovering from a broken nose sustained in France’s opening game against Austria, was withdrawn at halftime in extra time. The star forward appeared to struggle with the mask he had been wearing for protection.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the semi-final showdown between France and Spain, which promises to be a thrilling contest between two of Europe’s footballing powerhouses.
Real reason Martinez didn’t sack Cristiano Ronaldo from Portugal squad
Recall that Daily News 24 reported how Portugal manager Roberto Martinez revealed why he did not force Cristiano Ronaldo out of the Portugal national team.
Appearing on talkSPORT, the former Everton boss gave reasons for his decision to keep the 38-year-old.
The Spaniard said: “The initial point was, how do you make those decisions? At that point, I understand there are a lot of feelings at a World Cup with a national team.
“I was appointed on January 9th and had six weeks with the starting point of meeting every player who was in that list of 26 players in Qatar.
“For Cristiano, he wasn’t ready to step away, and then you can make a football decision. He scored four goals; he was a real leader, a captain, and someone who brings an experience that no other player has in world football, who needs to be used in your dressing room.”
