In a tense, low-scoring match, France emerged victorious over Portugal in a dramatic penalty shootout. Théo Hernandez was the hero for France, scoring the deciding penalty after João Félix hit the post with his shot. The game had been anticipated as a potential final, with both teams boasting attacking talent but struggling to find the back of the net throughout the match.
The game was a cautious affair, with both teams missing key opportunities to score. Cristiano Ronaldo missed a clear chance, while Kylian Mbappé suffered a blow to his already broken nose, raising concerns about his fitness. Despite moments of brilliance and excitement, including an acrobatic backheel from Rafael Leão and a strong defensive performance from Pepe, the game remained goalless.
The match went into extra time, where both teams continued to struggle with finishing. Ronaldo missed another clear opportunity, while Félix and Mendes also failed to convert chances. The game ultimately came down to penalties, where Félix’s miss handed the victory to France.
Portugal looked disappointed after the loss, while France celebrated their hard-fought victory. The match showcased moments of skill and excitement but ultimately highlighted both teams’ struggles in front of goal. France’s triumph in the shootout sees them advance in the tournament, while Portugal will be left to rue missed chances as they exit early.
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