France have defeated Portugal 5-3 on penalties to qualify for the Euro 2024 semifinals, after the two teams couldn’t score in 120 minutes of open play.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe have played their last European Championship game as they have confirmed that they will not participate in the 2028 edition.
While Pepe became the oldest outfield player to take to the pitch in the tournament’s history, Ronaldo became the joint-top assist provider. However, he failed to score even once, falling short of the record of the oldest scorer at the Euros.
Portugal eliminated from Euro 2024 at quarter final stage
🫂🇵🇹 Pepe: “The hug from Ronaldo… yes, it means a lot”.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 6, 2024
“It’s not the right time because it's very painful, we are like brothers… and we'll talk about it later”. pic.twitter.com/kuWIdis2l1
The first 45 minutes were quite cagey, with barely any high quality chances on either end. But, the game opened up after the break, with both sides turning to the bench for more attacking power.
Ousmane Dembele made a significant impact off the bench, and was named the man of the match. However, neither side found the back of the net in over 120 minutes of football. It took a missed penalty from Joao Felix for France to make it through in the end.
Pepe: "¡Gracias por todo, hermano!
— Arielipillo (@arielipillo) July 6, 2024
Ronaldo: "Todo por Portugal"
Pepe: Fue un placer jugar contigo hasta el final🇵🇹
Cristiano : Aun no es el final
🔜 Alnassr ????pic.twitter.com/9WK0RTAOAC
France have not scored a single goal from open play on their way to the semifinals, and are yet to concede from open play too. Their record will be out to the test against a determined and in-form Spain in the semifinals, with a mouth-watering clash confirmed.
How many goals have France scored at the Euros?
Three, two own goals and one penalty
