The semi-final clash between the two footballing giants lived up to its billing as France defeated Germany 2-0 to seal a berth in the EURO 2016 final.
France played an attack minded 4-2-3-1, with Deschamps opting for the same side that thrashed Iceland 5-2. Germany was forced to make changes as Mats Hummels, Sami Khedira and Mario Gomez were unavailable.
France started the game on the front foot but once Germany settled in, it dominated the play. It looked more likely to score with every attack and France missed someone like Leicester City midfielder N'Golo Kante as both Blaise Matuidi and Paul Pogba failed to protect the defence. Germany kept the ball and had almost 70% possession while France tried to hit the World champion in counter.
It took a moment of madness from Germany captain and its most experienced player Bastian Schweinsteiger to break the dead lock as he handled the ball inside the penalty area, jumping with his hands up. Referee took his time but made the right decision, and Antoine Griezmann slotted in the penalty right at the stroke of half time. The goal somewhat settled France.
Germany’s defence took a further blow when Boateng went off limping in the 60th minute. Mario Gotze too came on, hoping to make a similar impact as the World Cup final. France finally bought on Kante too provide more protection to the back four. Germany again looked threatening but another mistake by usually reliable Manuel Neuer left Griezmann with a tap-in as he sealed France’s spot in the final (see picture) . The usual German efficiency was missing for Die Mannschaft as it failed to convert its chances.
France will now face Portugal in the final in Paris on Sunday.
Comments
SHARE