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On the glittering stage of Euro 2024 in Germany, two giants of European football, France and Belgium, staged a breathtaking showdown at the Dusseldorf Arena. This is not only a contest of skill and tactics, but also a collision of will and determination. With an own goal, France beat Belgium 1-0 to advance to the quarter-finals and continue their championship journey.
France, the world's second-ranked powerhouse, did not show their due dominance in the group stage, barely qualifying as second with one win and two draws. The Belgian team, also ranked third in the world, also had a twists and turns in the group stage, with 1 win, 1 draw and 1 loss putting them second in the group with a slight disadvantage in goals scored. The meeting of these two teams is undoubtedly a highlight of this European Cup.
From the start of the game, France showed their attacking momentum, and Mbappe's shot was wide but a sign of their determination. As the game deepened, the confrontation between the two sides became more and more intense, Mbappe, Griezmann, and Rabiot received yellow cards for fouls one after another, which not only recorded the intensity of the game, but also laid the groundwork for tactical adjustments in the second half. Belgium's Kevin De Bruyne attempted to break the deadlock with a free-kick, but was heroically cleared by French goalkeeper Maignan.
The second half was still a stalemate, with France stepping up their offensive and trying to settle the battle in regulation time. Kylian Mbappe, Tchouameni and others threatened the Belgian goal on several occasions, but they were never able to convert them into goals. It wasn't until Muani came off the bench that the odd man's 85th-minute strike resulted in an own goal by Belgian defender Vertonghen and gave France a valuable lead. At this moment, it is not only a change in the score, but also a change in the rhythm of the game.
Muani's shot could have been just a normal attempt in the game, but an unfortunate touch from Vertonghen caused the ball to change course and roll into his own home. It was an own goal that was the turning point of the game, as it not only gave France the lead, but also dealt a heavy psychological blow to Belgium. At this moment, the balance of victory was completely tilted in favor of the French team.
As the final whistle blew, the French players celebrated the hard-earned victory, while the Belgian players could not hide their disappointment. Although the score of 1-0 was not enough to reflect the intensity and excitement of the whole game, it was the best proof of the wisdom and tenacity of the French team. Although the Belgian team lost, they showed fighting spirit and indomitable spirit in the game, and won the respect of the fans.
In this contest with Belgium, the French team showed the calmness and decisiveness that a champion team should have. Muani's substitution and own goal was not only a tactical victory, but also a psychological victory. The French team will continue their journey towards the highest glory of the European Championship. For the Belgian team, although they said goodbye to this European Cup, their performance is enough to be remembered by the world.
In a game full of suspense and passion, the French team proved that they are a real powerhouse, and the Belgian team also showed their quality and potential. This is the charm of football, whether you win or lose, it is the most sincere love and pursuit of this sport. Let's look forward to more exciting performances from the French team in the next games, and at the same time wish the Belgian team better wishes for the future.