Image copyright: Getty Images
Euro 2024
Quarter-finals
Portugal v France
Volksparkstadion
Hamburg, Germany
Friday, 5 July 2024
Kick-off is at 20h00
France will be hoping to find another gear when they go up against Portugal in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals at the Volksparkstadion on Friday, July 5.
Les Bleus have a talented squad spearheaded by Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann, but they've yet to hit their stride at the tournament in Germany.
Didier Deschamps' side finished runners-up to Austria in Group D with an unbeaten record, although they won just one of their opening three matches.
The two-time European Championship winners have conceded just one goal thus far, but they've only found the back of the net three times, none of which have come from open play.
Image copyright: Getty Images
France edged neighbours Belgium 1-0 in the round of 16 courtesy of a late Jan Vertonghen own-goal and Deschamps praised his players for remaining patient against the Red Devils, although he wants them to be more creative going forward.
"It's beautiful, we played a big game, it was tight but we enjoyed possession and we had more opportunities. We have to savour it, it's quite an achievement. We're in the quarter-finals, they're (Belgium) going home," he said.
"We made a lot of progress and our opponents were obviously cautious, even if they're an attacking team on paper. We did everything we could to create chances, and we created more than them, but we played the waiting game and didn't fall into their trap.
"I liked that, but obviously you can't win through possession alone. I'd like us to create more chances but we're into the quarter-finals and that's what counts. Let's not play down that moment."
The Selecao made a strong start to proceedings, beating Czech Republic (2-1) and Portugal (3-0) before suffering a surprise 2-0 defeat to debutants Georgia.
Roberto Martinez's side then needed penalties to get past Slovenia in the last 16, triumphing 3-0 in the shootout after 120 minutes of goalless football, with Cristiano Ronaldo failing to convert a spot-kick in extra time.
Ronaldo was in tears afterwards, but Martinez expressed pride in his star forward for setting an example for the rest of his team-mates by stepping up to make amends in the shootout.
"Ronaldo is a constant example. He's the only player who has played six European Championships and he has the desire, willpower and responsibility of a youngster. It's incredible for someone who has won everything to be like that. I thank him for being how he is," the Spaniard said.
"After missing the penalty, he was the first one to take one in the shootout. He knew he had to be the first. He showed us the way and we are very proud of him. He gave us a lesson. There are tough moments in football, but the way Ronaldo reacted ... we are proud.
"We showed enormous mental strength. We deserved victory, but we want to improve. Our goalkeeper defended three penalties. Diogo Costa is the most hidden secret in European football, and today he appeared. Winning like this makes us stronger than winning by two or three goals difference."
Head-to-Head (Last Five Meetings)
Matches - 5
Portugal wins - 1
France wins - 2
Draws - 2
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