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.
Nigerian footballer and former captain William Troost-Ekong revealed the standout player for him in the South African team during this World Cup.
He shared that Mbekezile Mbokazi really stood out in the World Cup match against Canada.
Despite their loss, he praised the team’s performance. “It speaks volumes that Mbokazi [Mbekezile] was the best player on the South African team. I believe Okon also had considerable possession of the ball.”
Poland footballer Robert Lewandowski’s new club has officially been revealed.
It can be noted that the player was involved in the ongoing summer transfer window, with negotiations taking place over his future.
The footballer will be joining Chicago Fire. It can be recalled that he visited the club two weeks ago, and the move has now been confirmed. The information was shared by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Former footballer Zlatan Ibrahimović speaks on the FIFA World Cup and states which African team countries should watch out for.
During a recent interview, the former player shared that Ivory Coast should be one of the teams to look out for.
“They can be dangerous. It is a very good team. They lost against Germany, but that game could have been a draw or even a win.
“So, it’s not like they came out of the group with one loss because of a bad game against Germany. They played a good game against Germany and could easily have gotten a point against them.”
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