Watch Portugal vs France full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 19:00 (GMT) on 5th July 2024
The referee for this match is M. Oliver
Game played at Volksparkstadion
This is a match in Europe – UEFA Euro, Quarter Finals, Season 2024
France Edge Portugal in Thrilling Penalty Shootout to Secure Euro 2024 Semi-Final Spot
France secured their fifth semi-final appearance at the UEFA European Championships by holding their nerve in a tense penalty shootout against Portugal, emerging victorious in Hamburg after a nail-biting affair.
Match Overview
The highly anticipated clash began with both teams showing their defensive strengths. Portugal’s goalkeeper Diogo Costa, fresh from his heroics against Slovenia, made a routine save in the 20th minute to keep out Théo Hernández’s long-range effort. Portugal dominated possession in a cagey first half but failed to create clear-cut chances. Cristiano Ronaldo handed over a promising free-kick opportunity to Bruno Fernandes in the 43rd minute, whose attempt missed the target.
Second Half Action
Kylian Mbappe, quiet in the first half, came alive early in the second, linking up with N’Golo Kanté before seeing his shot saved by Costa. As the match progressed, both teams had golden opportunities. Fernandes and Vitinha tested France’s Mike Maignan, who stood firm with crucial saves.
France then had their chances, with Randal Kolo Muani’s effort blocked by Rúben Dias and Eduardo Camavinga dragging his shot wide. The lack of finishing touch meant the game went into extra time.
Extra Time Drama
In extra time, Ronaldo missed a crucial chance to redeem his previous penalty miss against Slovenia, firing over from close range after a well-placed pass from Francisco Conceição.
In a surprising move, France’s star Mbappe was substituted for Bradley Barcola halfway through extra time. Portugal nearly clinched it at the end of extra time, but Nuno Mendes’s effort was brilliantly saved by Maignan, pushing the game to a penalty shootout.
Penalty Shootout
France displayed composure and precision in the shootout, converting all five of their spot-kicks. João Félix’s miss, hitting the post, proved costly for Portugal, sealing their fate. France’s clinical performance set up a thrilling semi-final clash with Spain.
Key Takeaways
- Match Heroics: Goalkeepers Maignan and Costa were pivotal, making crucial saves to keep their teams in the game.
- Missed Opportunities: Both sides had significant chances but lacked the finishing touch, pushing the match into extra time and penalties.
- Penalty Precision: France’s flawless penalty execution contrasted with Portugal’s single miss, deciding the match’s outcome.
France now looks ahead to a semi-final showdown with Spain, continuing their quest for a record-equalling fourth European Championship title.
