Sport
France Ends Penalty Shootout Curse, Knocks Out Ronaldo’s Portugal to Reach Euro 2024 Semifinals
HAMBURG, Germany (AP) — France’s longstanding penalty shootout woes came to an end as they secured a 5-3 victory over Portugal, advancing to the Euro 2024 semifinals. The match ended in a 0-0 draw, leading to a tense shootout in which Portugal’s Joao Felix hit the post with the only miss. Theo Hernández clinched the win for France with a confident kick into the top corner.
This marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s record sixth and final European Championship. The 39-year-old scored Portugal’s first penalty and consoled his tearful teammate Pepe afterward. Ronaldo’s illustrious 20-year Euro career included a 2016 title victory over France. It’s uncertain if he will continue playing for Portugal through the 2026 World Cup.
Despite the presence of star Kylian Mbappé, France struggled to find their form, reaching the semifinals without scoring from open play. Their passive performance allowed Portugal to dominate possession, but France’s defense held firm. Ousmane Dembele’s energetic display off the bench suggests he may start in the upcoming match against Spain. To reclaim the European crown, France will need to ignite their attacking prowess.
Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade speaks on the team’s readiness for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The captain shared that they are focused on maintaining their reputation as the best team and making Africa proud.
“The team’s spirit is high. Everyone is fully focused. We know why we’re here, and we are ready to take things one step at a time. So we’re 100 per cent ready.”
Spain footballer Dani Olmo speaks on the final cup match and what really happened during the altercation that occurred.
The player shared in an interview “An individual who claims to be sorry but justifies a punch as a reaction to a comment is certainly not sincere in their apology, as they are deceiving themselves. I did not provoke him, so there is no need for him to apologize.”
He added “What truly characterizes us is not the error itself, but the bravery to admit it with humility, honesty, and dignity, especially when my children, my family, and all the fans are watching the game.”
Former Real Madrid player Karim Benzema shares his thoughts on the potential appointment of Zinedine Zidane as the new France manager, expressing his happiness for him.
He shared in a recent interview “Am I pleased that Zidane is the new coach of France? I cannot say for certain if it will be him, but if it is, YES, I AM TRULY HAPPY. He is a legend, he is like a big brother to me.”
While France has not yet confirmed their new manager, Zidane remains a strong candidate.
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