Home
Legendary Portugal duo Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe’s international career may have come to an end as they lost to France 5-3 on penalties. In a quarterfinal that lacked the attacking intent from both teams, it came down to spot kicks and Mike Maignan turned out to be the saviour of France.
In his last Euro game, Ronaldo looked a pale shadow of himself and missed several opportunities to score. Similarly, Kylian Mbappe had an off night as well in the attack as Portugal and France engaged in a stalemate in the first 90 minutes followed by 30 minutes of extra time.
Both the teams were cautious in the start and the first shot came in the 16th minute off Bruno Fernandes. After a lacklustre first half, the first real goal-scoring opportunity came in the 67th minute. Randal Kolo Muani and Jules Koude created a chance but Rube Dias came up with a goal-saving tackle. Later in the game, substitute Dembele created a chance for Eduardo Camavinga but he failed to convert it from close range.
"You wonder what would have happened if we had scored goals. The opponent wasn't that efficient either," said France coach Didier Deschamps.
"But you're not telling me that we don't deserve our place in the semi-final. But I would prefer to have a team that's more efficient in goalscoring."
Ronaldo misses easiest of chances
Three minutes into the extra time, Ronaldo had the opportunity to score with not much challenge but he could not deliver. He bowed out of the tournament without scoring a goal.
"We knew it was going to be a tough game but we were solid in defence and we had a lot of mental strength and kept our cool during the shootout, that's what made the difference," Maignan said.
End of an era
Ronaldo may have played his last game for Portugal. He has 130 goals from 212 games. 41-year-old Pepe was heartbroken after the loss and expressed his disappointment.
"Football is cruel ... and sadness is part of it. We were aiming to win for our country and bring joy to our people," said Pepe, who made some outstanding tackles. "Five days ago we won on penalties and now we've lost on penalties."
France will now take on Spain who knocked out hosts Germany with a 2-1 win on July 5.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK
