France booked their place in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals with a dramatic 1-0 victory over neighbouring Belgium on Monday night, 01 July 2024. The much-anticipated clash between the world number two and three sides failed to truly ignite, but a late own goal settled the tense affair in Dusseldorf.
France vs Belgium: France Frustrated in First Half
Les Bleus, boasting the attacking talents of Kylian Mbappé and Marcus Thuram, were the more proactive team throughout the opening 45 minutes. However, their finishing touch deserted them. Thuram’s header sailing over the bar was the closest they came to breaking the deadlock. Belgium, meanwhile, opted for a more cautious approach with a five-man defence, stifling France’s attacking forays and frustrating their attempts to create clear-cut opportunities.
Second Half Substitution Proves Decisive
The second half continued in a similar vein, with both teams struggling to carve out clear-cut opportunities. France coach Didier Deschamps shuffled his pack in search of a breakthrough, introducing fresh legs in Randal Kolo Muani and Matteo Guendouzi. The substitution proved decisive. With five minutes remaining, Kolo Muani unleashed a shot from inside the area that took a cruel deflection off Belgium defender Jan Vertonghen, looping over the outstretched hand of goalkeeper Koen Casteels and agonizingly into the net.
France Advances, Belgium’s Wait Continues
The own goal sparked jubilation in the French ranks, while Belgium were left to rue their lack of attacking intent. The win sends France through to the next round, where they’ll face a stiffer test of their title credentials. For Belgium’s golden generation, their wait for a major trophy continues as they crash out in the round of 16 for the second consecutive tournament.
Related article: France vs Belgium: Predictions, Key Players, Where to Watch Euro 2024 Knockout Clash
