Talk about drama! France squeezed into the Euro 2024 quarterfinals on Monday with a 1-0 victory over Belgium – but not without a wild twist. The decider? A late-game own goal that left fans stunned. 🎢
Underwhelming Giants Collide
This heavyweight match between neighbors (ranked 2nd and 3rd globally) turned into a tactical stalemate. Kylian Mbappé, still masked after breaking his nose earlier in the tournament, fired five shots but couldn't find the net. Belgium's defense even pulled Kevin De Bruyne back as a deep-lying midfielder to contain France's attack. ⚔️
The 85th-Minute Magic (or Mishap)
Substitute Randal Kolo Muani became the accidental hero when his blocked shot deflected off Belgium's Jan Vertonghen into the net. 'I got lucky,' Kolo Muani admitted. Coach Didier Deschamps called the win 'beautiful,' though fans might debate that description. 😅
Scoring Woes Continue
Here's the kicker: No French player has scored from open play this tournament! Their goals have come from two own goals and a Mbappé penalty. Deschamps remains confident: 'We’ll score more.' Next up: Portugal in Friday's quarterfinals. 🇫🇷⚔️🇵🇹
