France secured their place in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals after a narrow 1-0 victory over Belgium, courtesy of a late own goal in a match that saw star forward Kylian Mbapp\u00e9 continue to struggle to find the net.
In a highly anticipated clash between neighboring rivals ranked second and third in the world, the game fell short of expectations as both teams failed to produce clear-cut chances. The decisive moment came in the 85th minute when France’s substitute Randal Kolo Muani turned inside the penalty area and fired a shot that deflected off Belgium defender Jan Vertonghen, looping over goalkeeper Koen Casteels into the net.
“I was lucky enough to get my shot on target,” Kolo Muani remarked after the match. “It was blocked but it went in. We’re very, very happy and very, very proud.”
Despite the win, questions remain over France’s attacking prowess as they have yet to score a goal from open play by one of their own players in the tournament, with their previous goals coming from an own goal and a penalty converted by Mbapp\u00e9.
“Even if today that goal was enough to get us to the quarterfinals, we have the capability to score more,” France coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged.
Mbapp\u00e9, wearing a protective mask due to a broken nose suffered in the opening game against Austria, had five shots during the match but failed to hit the target. Deployed mostly on the left wing, he was effectively contained by a disciplined Belgian defense. Belgium’s own creative maestro, Kevin De Bruyne, started in a deeper midfield role, limiting his offensive influence until he was moved forward in the final 30 minutes.
De Bruyne’s switch to an advanced position sparked a late surge from Belgium, with the midfielder threading a precise pass to Yannick Carrasco, whose delayed shot was blocked by France’s left-back Th\u00e9o Hernandez, denying Belgium a crucial equalizer.
France will face Portugal in the quarterfinals on Friday, setting up another enticing encounter as they aim to progress further in the competition.
Reference(s):
France into Euro 2024 quarterfinals after beating Belgium by own goal
cgtn.com
