Euro 2024 Quarterfinals: Portugal and France Face Off in Penalty Shootout
The tension was palpable as Portugal and France met in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals. After a grueling match that ended in a draw, both teams prepared for the ultimate test: a penalty shootout.
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo and France's Kylian Mbappé were the standout players of the tournament, but it was their teammates who would decide their fate. The pressure was immense as each player stepped up to take their turn from the spot.
The first five penalties were converted without incident, but Portugal's João Félix missed his attempt, giving France a slim advantage. However, Diogo Costa levelled the score for Portugal with an impressive save from Theo Hernández.
With the stakes higher than ever, it was Ronaldo who stepped up next. He had scored 14 goals in the tournament and was Portugal's best hope to keep their dreams alive. But his penalty was saved by France's goalkeeper Unai Simón.
The crowd held their breath as Hernández approached the spot for France. He had a chance to secure victory for his team, but Portugal's Danilo Pereira made a crucial save, sending the shootout into sudden death.
Mikel Merino was next up for Spain and he made no mistake, heading home the winning goal to send Spain to the semifinals and leave Portugal dejected. The Portuguese veterans, including Ronaldo and Pepe, could only watch on as their Euro 2024 journey came to an end.
France will face Spain in the semifinals on July 9 in Munich. Portugal's exit marks the end of an era for some of Europe's most experienced players, but they can take pride in their valiant efforts throughout the tournament.
