EURO 2024 Roundup, Matchday 16
Here is a recap of the games that occurred in Matchday 16 of EURO 2024, focusing on the results and notable player performances.
France 1-0 Belgium
France secured their place in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 by defeating Belgium 1-0 in a closely contested match. The game saw a slow start with both teams struggling to create clear chances in the first half. The only notable action came from a deflected free-kick by Kevin De Bruyne. As the match progressed, France began to show more attacking intent, with a well-executed pass from Aurélien Tchouaméni setting up a chance for Jules Koundé.
Despite only managing one shot on target in the first half, France improved in the second half, with Tchouaméni testing the Belgian goalkeeper with a long-range effort. Belgium also had their moments, with Yannick Carrasco coming close to scoring before being denied by a crucial block from Theo Hernández.
Despite France’s strong pressure, Belgium was actually getting the best scoring opportunities. However, Randal Kolo Muani managed to score a lucky goal that ultimately decided the game in France’s favor. This victory means that France will face either Portugal in the next round. Unfortunately for Belgium, this loss adds to their history of disappointment in major tournaments, with their ‘Golden Generation’ once again falling short.
Portugal 0-0 Slovenia (Portugal win on penalties)
Portugal advanced to the quarter-finals of the Euro 2024 with a 3-0 victory on penalties following a disappointing 0-0 draw against Slovenia. Slovenia, who made it to the knockout stages of an international tournament for the first time, put up a strong defensive effort that made it challenging for Portugal to score. Despite some opportunities for Rafael Leão and Cristiano Ronaldo, they were unable to capitalize on crosses and score the opening goal.
Ronaldo, who had been goalless despite numerous attempts in the tournament, was determined to break his scoring drought but faced difficulty against Slovenia’s defense and goalkeeper Jan Oblak. Slovenia had a chance to score towards the end of the first half, but Portugal also came close with a shot from João Palhinha that hit the post. Ronaldo’s efforts to score were thwarted by Slovenia’s defense, and even his set piece attempts were saved by Oblak.
The excitement dwindled as both teams geared up for extra time, with Šeško missing a chance and Ronaldo having his best opportunity of the match saved by Oblak. Portugal struggled to create chances during regular time, but were given a golden opportunity when Diogo Jota was fouled in the box, resulting in a penalty kick that Ronaldo missed after Oblak made a remarkable save. As the match seemed destined for penalties, a crucial save by Diogo Costa denied Šeško a potential game-winning goal.
Slovenia missed their first three penalty kicks while Portugal scored all of theirs, securing a victory with Bernardo Silva’s decisive shot. Despite a tough match, Portugal advanced to the quarter-finals to face France, surpassing their performance from three years ago.