Belgium’s Euro 2024 journey came to a crashing end after a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to France in the last 16. The decisive goal came in the 8th minute, when Jan Vertonghen deflected a shot into his own net.
France, despite failing to score a single goal in open play throughout the tournament (including the group stage), managed to scrape through. Kylian Mbappe had a couple of chances, but it was Randal Kolo Muani’s deflected effort that ultimately secured victory for Didier Deschamps’ men.
Belgium fought hard but couldn’t find an equalizer in the dying minutes. France now face Portugal in Hamburg on Friday after the later won 3-0 on post match penalties against Slovenia.
Les Blues started strong, but Belgium’s defense held firm. Mbappe had the first real chance just before the 15th minute from a short corner, but his shot sailed over the bar.
France dominated possession but lacked a breakthrough. Despite applying pressure, their attempts went astray. Marcus Thuram and Antoine Griezmann both missed opportunities, while Mbappe remained quiet.
Belgium gradually grew into the game. Kevin De Bruyne forced a good save from Mike Maignan with a dangerous free-kick. Yannick Carrasco threatened with a blocked shot, and Thuram spurned another chance with a wayward header.
Aurelien Tchouameni nearly broke the dreadlock just before halftime, but his shot went over the bar.
Thuram’s header after the break brought France closer, but Kylian Mbappe continued to be frustrated. Despite a strong run and another effort in the final ten minutes, he couldn’t find the target. Les Bleus piled on the pressure but their finishing let them down.
Lukaku fluffs his chance!
Despite a promising delivery from Orel Mangala, Romelu Lukaku failed to convert for Belgium. Kevin De Bruyne, ever the driving force, tried his luck in the 83rd minute but was denied by the French keeper.
Late Drama and a stroke of luck for france
Just two minutes later, Lukaku’s misplaced pass near the edge of his own area proved costly. France capitalized on the error, with Kolo Muani’s shot deflecting off Jan Vertonghen and finding the net. This lucky break sealed the win for Les Bleus, dashing Belgium’s hopes of extra time.
