A tense and cagey affair in Hamburg culminated in a heart-stopping penalty shootout, with France emerging victorious to book their place in the Euro 2024 semi-finals. Portugal, once again forced to navigate the lottery of spot-kicks, fell short after a valiant effort.
Portugal, buoyed by their penalty shootout win over Slovenia, started brightly. Diogo Costa, the hero of that encounter, was called into action early, denying Theo Hernandez’s long-range effort. Despite this scare, Portugal controlled the first half, dominating possession but failing to translate it into clear-cut chances.
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Cristiano Ronaldo, seeking redemption after a subdued performance, had a golden opportunity just before halftime. A free-kick presented itself, but in a surprising move, he opted to let Bruno Fernandes take the shot. Fernandes’ attempt, however, curled harmlessly wide.
The second half saw a shift in momentum. Kylian Mbappe, previously quiet, sparked into life. A dazzling one-two with N’Golo Kante culminated in a shot that forced Costa into a comfortable save. France threatened again on the hour mark, with Randal Kolo Muani denied by a last-ditch block from Ruben Dias.
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The game remained a tense stalemate, with both sides squandering opportunities. Eduardo Camavinga missed a glorious chance for France, while Portugal saw Vitinha and Nuno Mendes denied by Mike Maignan in the French goal.
Extra time followed the same pattern – a tactical chess match lacking the cutting edge. Ronaldo, still haunted by his missed penalty against Slovenia, had a chance to break the deadlock. However, his attempt sailed over the bar, adding to his growing frustration.
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In a surprising move, Mbappe was substituted midway through extra time, replaced by the young Bradley Barcola. This tactical gamble nearly backfired – Nuno Mendes forced a crucial save from Maignan in the dying moments, sending the game to penalties.
The penalty shootout was a nail-biting affair. Joao Felix’s strike cannoned off the post, the only blemish for France. Ousmane Dembele, Youssouf Fofana, Jules Kounde, and Bradley Barcola all converted their penalties with ice-cold precision, sending Les Bleus through to a mouthwatering semi-final clash with Spain.
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Portugal’s dream run at Euro 2024 ends in disappointment, but they can hold their heads high after a valiant effort. For France, the win is a testament to their resilience and squad depth. The stage is now set for a thrilling encounter against Spain – a clash between two European giants with a history of producing unforgettable showdowns.
