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.
Football legend Rio Ferdinand has shared his prediction ahead of the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.
While many have backed different teams to lift the trophy, Ferdinand said some fans have underestimated Argentina’s quality.
He said “I find it difficult to bet against Argentina. They have demonstrated remarkable character, determination, and resilience. I believe people have been somewhat disrespectful by calling them an average team; they are not.”
He continued “I think it is inappropriate and disrespectful. If you are saying that, you clearly do not watch enough football, as they are an excellent team, and in challenging situations, they become even better and stronger. However, I do believe Spain will win the match.”
French footballer Kylian Mbappé has reacted to France’s 6-4 defeat to England in the FIFA World Cup third-place match on Saturday.
Mbappé admitted that the team wanted to end manager Didier Deschamps’ tenure on a high by securing a victory.
He said “We didn’t win, and that is a shame for the coach. We wanted to do something for him, and the first half gave the impression that we let him down, even if that wasn’t the feeling we intended.”
“But we want to thank him for everything he’s done. This match won’t tarnish Didier Deschamps’ legend.”
Football legend Lionel Messi has shared his expectations ahead of Argentina’s FIFA World Cup final against Spain this Sunday.
Messi praised the Spanish national team, describing them as one of the strongest sides in the tournament, and admitted he expects a closely contested final.
He said “They are a tremendous team, with outstanding players. They play excellent football. I know the Spanish side well, and they have a style of play they have developed over many years. Several of the squad play for Barca, a club that means a great deal to me and that I still keep up with. It will be a special World Cup final, and obviously, I expect it to be very closely matched.”
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Rio Ferdinand Predicts Spain vs Argentina World Cup Final
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