![France & Portugal To Face Off In Quarter Finals](https://maltadaily.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/faceweb.jpg)
France advanced to the EURO 2024 quarterfinals by narrowly defeating Belgium 1-0 in a thrilling match in Düsseldorf on Monday.
The decisive moment came in the 85th minute when veteran Anderlecht defender Jan Vertonghen accidentally deflected Randal Kolo Muani’s shot into his own net, sealing Belgium’s fate.
In another intense encounter, Portugal overcame Slovenia in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 3-0 after a goalless draw.
The shootout hero was Portuguese goalkeeper Diogo Costa, who spectacularly saved penalties from Josip Ilicic, Jure Balkovec, and Benjamin Verbic, ensuring Portugal’s place in the quarterfinals.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva successfully converted their penalties for Portugal.
Earlier in the extra time, Slovenia’s goalkeeper Jan Oblak made a crucial save by stopping Ronaldo’s penalty in the 105th minute, inspiring his team. However, despite this effort, Slovenian forward Benjamin Sesko missed a one-on-one chance after a defensive error by Pepe, failing to capitalize on the opportunity.
Roberto Martinez’s Portugal ultimately secured their spot in the last eight, while Slovenia exited the tournament.
Costa’s exceptional performance earned him the man of the match title, becoming the first goalkeeper to save three penalties in a EURO shootout. The eagerly anticipated Portugal vs. France quarterfinal will take place on Friday in Hamburg.
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