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.
Chelsea player Enzo Fernández is in discussions to join Manchester City. This information was revealed by Fabrizio Romano, who shared that the two clubs are discussing a potential deal.
He wrote: “Enzo Fernández has a verbal agreement with Manchester City on personal terms.
“Deal depends on club-to-club decision, as #MCFC have not sent an official bid yet, but contacts will take place soon; decision on price is up to Chelsea.
“Enzo could be out again this weekend.”
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca mentions his captains for the team. He mentions Rúben Dias and Erling Haaland.
He shared “We have experienced players. For sure, we have leaders. Now we need to wait four or five more days until the transfer window closes to see if we can add one or two more captains to Ruben [Dias] and Erling , who at the moment are the two captains.”
Maresca confirmed the pair as part of his leadership group ahead of the 2026/27 season, with two more captains expected to be selected after the transfer window closes.
Chelsea manager speaks on the team and shares thoughts on considering a change in goalkeepers, giving another goalkeeper, Mike Penders, a chance.
“Penders is part of the squad, so he has an opportunity. We will decide and then I am giving the team tomorrow to the players, so I prefer to respect that they know first.”
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Enzo Fernández Moves Closer to Manchester City Transfer
