France 1, Belgium 0

France secured a momentous spot in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals with a nail-biting late victory over Belgium. Despite dominating possession, it took an 85th-minute strike from substitute Randal Kolo Muani, deflected off Jan Vertonghen, to break the deadlock and send Les Bleus through in a match that will be remembered for its sheer intensity.

Match Highlights

Belgium’s Last-Minute Efforts: Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne had chances to win it for Belgium, but French goalkeeper Mike Maignan was up to the task.

Deschamps’ Record: Didier Deschamps’ side has lost only one of their last 15 Euros matches, excluding penalty shootouts.

Belgium’s Struggles: Belgium has yet to advance past the quarters in three consecutive knockout stage appearances.

Key Statistics

France’s Dominance: France is now 18-1-3 all-time at the Euros when scoring first.

Belgium’s Woes: Belgium is 1-9-1 when conceding first at the Euros.

Own Goals: There have been nine own goals in this Euro, closing in on the record of 11 set in 2020.

France will face the winner of Portugal vs. Slovenia in the quarterfinals.

Portugal 0 (3), Slovenia 0 (0)

Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo was at the center of a dramatic rollercoaster of emotions against Slovenia. After missing a crucial penalty in extra time, he redeemed himself in the shootout, setting the stage for Portugal’s 3-0 penalty shootout victory. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa’s heroics were pivotal, but it was Ronaldo’s performance that added a layer of drama to the match.

Ronaldo’s Rollercoaster

Cristiano Ronaldo had a tough day, missing several shots and a crucial penalty in extra time. However, he redeemed himself by scoring the first penalty in the shootout. His journey through the match was filled with highs and lows, reflecting his determination and emotional investment.

Match Highlights

Ronaldo’s Redemption: After missing a penalty in extra time, Ronaldo set the tone for the shootout by converting Portugal’s first penalty.

Costa’s Heroics: Diogo Costa became the first goalkeeper to save three penalties in a European Championship shootout.

Slovenia’s Fight: Slovenia’s Jan Oblak made several crucial saves, keeping his team in the game through 120 minutes.

Goalless Regulation: The teams were goalless through 90 minutes and extra time before needing penalty kicks to decide a winner.

Penalty Shootout Drama: In the shootout, Josip Iličić, Jure Balkovec, and Benjamin Verbič missed their attempts against Costa, while Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva each beat Jan Oblak to secure the win.

Key Statistics

Portugal’s Streak: Portugal has reached the knockout stages in eight consecutive Euros, the longest active streak.

Ronaldo’s Free Kick Woes: Ronaldo has taken 60 direct free-kick attempts at major tournaments for Portugal, scoring only once.

Slovenia’s Debut: Slovenia debuted in the knockout stage of the Euros as an independent nation.

Quotes

Ronaldo’s Reaction: “Sadness at the start is joy at the end. That’s what football is. Moments, inexplicable moments.”

Costa’s Reflection: “This is probably the best game of my life. I am focused on doing what I have to do. I went with my gut feeling.”

Player of the Day

Diogo Costa wasn’t called into action much during normal time, but he made an incredible save on a Benjamin Šeško shot to take the tie to penalties. Costa made three dramatic saves in the shootout, becoming the first men’s goalkeeper to save three penalties in a shootout at the Euros.

Moment of the Day

Cristiano Ronaldo’s missed penalty could have ended Portugal’s campaign, but Jan Oblak’s brilliant save kept Slovenia in the game. Despite this, Portugal ultimately triumphed in the shootout, showcasing the emotional rollercoaster of football.

Photo of the Day

A picture of Cristiano Ronaldo’s emotional reaction after missing the penalty in extra time encapsulates the match’s highs and lows. His determination and eventual redemption highlight the drama and passion of Euro 2024.

Portugal’s journey continues against France in the quarterfinals, promising another exciting chapter in Euro 2024.

Bellingham Steps Up When It Matters Most

Jude Bellingham set himself up as England’s savior in a pre-tournament advert for Adidas, and on Sunday in Gelsenkirchen, he proved to be just that. The Real Madrid midfielder struggled for 94 minutes against Slovakia, running down dead-end routes and showing visible frustration. However, when Gareth Southgate’s side faced a humiliating round-of-16 exit following Ivan Schranz’s 25th-minute opener, Bellingham reacted quickly to a Marc Guéhi flick-on and produced a stunning overhead kick to tie the match 1-1 in stoppage time.

In the first minute of extra time, Harry Kane scored the deciding header, assisted by substitutes Cole Palmer, Eberechi Eze, and Ivan Toney, securing a 2-1 victory for England. Despite underwhelming performances from England’s front four of Bellingham, Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Phil Foden, Bellingham’s moment of magic demonstrated why many considered them pre-tournament favorites.

When celebrating his equalizer, Bellingham appeared to mouth the words, “Who else?” indicating his confidence and determination. England will face Switzerland in the quarterfinals, needing Bellingham’s inspirational form to continue their Euro 2024 journey.

Match Highlights

• Slovakia Takes the Lead: Ivan Schranz opened the scoring for Slovakia in the 25th minute, putting England on the brink of a humiliating round-of-16 exit.
• Bellingham’s Equalizer: In the fifth minute of stoppage time, Bellingham reacted quickly to a flick-on from Marc Guéhi, executing a stunning overhead kick to tie the match 1-1.
• Kane’s Winning Goal: One minute into extra time, Harry Kane headed in the winning goal, assisted by substitutes Cole Palmer, Eberechi Eze, and Ivan Toney, securing a 2-1 victory for England.

Key Statistics

• Consecutive Quarterfinals: England has made consecutive Euro quarterfinals for the first time since 1968 and 1972.
• Kane’s Milestones: Harry Kane has played 13 Euro games, the most in England’s history, and scored six Euro goals, tied for second-most with Wayne Rooney. His 14 goals at major tournaments are already the most of any English player.
• Bellingham’s Impact: Bellingham’s late-game heroics have kept England’s hopes alive, demonstrating the importance of his role in the team.

England will face Switzerland in the quarterfinals, needing Bellingham in inspirational form to continue their Euro 2024 journey.

Spain’s Resilience Shines in 4-1 Victory Over Georgia

Spain showcased their incredible resilience and dynamic attacking prowess in a thrilling 4-1 victory over Georgia, securing their place in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals.

A Scare-Turned Triumph

Despite facing an early setback, Spain demonstrated their exceptional character and composure. Georgia, the lowest-ranked team in the tournament, took a shocking lead in the 18th minute with an own goal by Robin Le Normand. This brief scare, however, was no more than a fleeting moment in a game that ultimately highlighted Spain’s dominance.

Rodri’s Leadership and Equalizer

Spain’s response was swift and composed, led by the ever-reliable Rodri. Urging his teammates to stay calm, Rodri took control of the situation and scored a crucial equalizer with a controlled low finish from the edge of the box. This pivotal moment set the stage for Spain’s resurgence.

Dynamic Duo: Williams and Yamal

The second half saw the twin threats of Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal wreak havoc on Georgia’s defense. Yamal’s beautifully clipped cross from the inside right channel allowed Fabian Ruiz to head in Spain’s second goal. Ruiz then turned provider for Williams, who showcased his blistering pace and clinical finishing to add a third. Substitute Dani Olmo capped off the dominant performance with a fourth goal, sealing the victory.

Georgia’s Brave Effort

While Spain’s victory was emphatic, Georgia’s effort should be noticed. They showed immense bravery and resilience, especially in the first half, holding Spain at bay despite limited possession. Giorgi Mamardashvili, Georgia’s standout goalkeeper, performed superbly, making several crucial saves to keep his team in the game.

Looking Ahead: Spain vs. Germany

Spain’s win sets up a highly anticipated quarterfinal clash against hosts Germany. Both teams boast a blend of youth and experience, promising an exciting encounter. The subplots are tantalizing: Spain’s dynamic attackers, Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal, will face against Germany’s young talents, Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz. Additionally, the midfield battle between Rodri and Toni Kroos is set to be a masterclass in intelligence and strategy.

Match Highlights

• Georgia Takes Early Lead: Georgia went ahead in the 18th minute through an own goal by Robin Le Normand.
• Spain’s Response: Spain quickly equalized with a controlled low finish from Rodri. Williams and Yamal then wreaked havoc on the flanks, contributing to Spain’s dominant performance.
• Second-Half Goals: Lamine Yamal set up the second goal with a beautiful cross for Fabian Ruiz. Williams added a third, and Dani Olmo completed the scoring.

Key Statistics

• Goals Galore: Spain is the second team to score four or more goals in a game this tournament.
• Teenage Talent: Lamine Yamal has two assists, making him the first teenager to assist on multiple goals at the Euros since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2004.
• Georgia’s Effort: Despite the loss, Georgia’s debut at the Euros and their spirited performances, particularly from Kvaratskhelia and Mamardashvili, will be remembered.

Spain’s impressive display against Georgia highlights their strength and depth, making them one of the teams to beat in Euro 2024. With their blend of youth and experience, pace, and poise, Spain looks poised to continue their formidable run in the tournament. Fans can expect a thrilling showdown between two of the tournament’s best teams as they prepare to face Germany.

Spain earned a quarterfinal date with hosts Germany after a commanding 4-1 victory over Georgia. The win showcased Spain’s dynamic, attacking football and resilience.

Germany’s Dominant Performance Against Denmark

Germany’s journey to the Euro 2024 quarterfinals was a testament to their resilience. A convincing 2-0 win over Denmark at BVB Stadion Dortmund on Saturday, with goals from Kai Havertz and Jamal Musiala, secured their place in the next Round. Their unwavering determination will see them face the winner of the Spain vs. Georgia match.

Match Highlights

Weather Delay: A thunderstorm caused a 22-minute delay in the first half, which ended goalless.

Disallowed Goal: Denmark seemed to have taken the lead in the 48th minute with a goal by Joachim Andersen, but it was ruled out for offside after a VAR review.

Penalty Drama: Minutes later, another VAR review confirmed a handball by Andersen, setting up a penalty for Germany. Havertz converted the penalty, placing it perfectly past Kasper Schmeichel.

Musiala’s Goal: Musiala doubled Germany’s lead 14 minutes later, securing the win and setting up a quarterfinal match on July 5 in Stuttgart.

Key Statistics

Germany’s Record: Germany has lost just one of its last 21 games at the Euros when scoring the opening goal and remains unbeaten in its previous 14.

Neuer’s Milestone: Manuel Neuer set a new record for most appearances by a German player at the Euros, with 19, surpassing Bastian Schweinsteiger.

Italy’s Disappointing Exit

Italy was eliminated from Euro 2024 after a 2-0 loss to Switzerland in Berlin. This defeat marks the end of Italy’s run as defending champions, ensuring Spain remains the only repeat champion in Euros history.

Match Highlights

Switzerland’s Goals: Remo Freuler opened the scoring in the 37th minute, and Ruben Vargas added a second goal early in the second half.

Rankings Upset: Switzerland, ranked 19th by FIFA, defeated 10th-ranked Italy, marking one of the tournament’s significant upsets.

Key Statistics

Italy’s Record: Italy failed to record more than one win in a Euro tournament for the first time since 2008. Since the format was introduced, they have been eliminated in the Round of 16 in all three tournaments.

Switzerland’s Achievement: Switzerland advances to its second consecutive Euro quarterfinal, matching its best-ever finish.

Upcoming Quarterfinals

Switzerland will play the winner of the England vs. Slovakia match, a game that promises to be a tough battle. Meanwhile, Germany awaits the winner of the Spain vs. Georgia clash, a match that could potentially be a test of their strength.

Switzerland’s Journey

Switzerland started the knockout Round with a strong performance, eliminating the defending champions, Italy. Their upcoming match will be crucial as they aim to surpass their previous best Euro result.

Germany’s Confidence

Germany’s solid performance against Denmark boosts their confidence as they prepare for their quarterfinal match. With key players like Havertz and Musiala in top form, the hosts are determined to continue their quest for the title.

The first day of the Round of 16 at Euro 2024 brought excitement and drama, with Germany’s dominance and Italy’s unexpected exit. Fans can look forward to more thrilling matches and potential upsets as the tournament progresses. Stay tuned for further updates and highlights as Euro 2024 captivates football enthusiasts worldwide.