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On July 2, Beijing time, the 1/8 finals of the European Cup were in full swing, and the two giants of France and Portugal advanced one after another, injecting more suspense and highlights into the next quarterfinals.
France narrowly defeated Belgium, and tactical games became the key
In the head-to-head matchup between France and Belgium, the scene did not spark as expected. France, ranked second in the world, showed a more sophisticated and calm side against Belgium, who are next in the rankings. Belgium were clearly on the defensive in this game, trying to find counter-attacking opportunities with a solid defence. France, on the other hand, controlled the tempo of the game unhurriedly, relying on the wing-backs' aggressive movement and precise crosses to create threats.
In the 85th minute, France broke the deadlock with a delicate combination. Kounde's return pass was on point, Kante received the ball and played it straight to Muani, who fired into the back of the net for Belgium defender Vertonghen to touch the ball into his own net, and the own goal was the key to France's 1-0 thrashing of Belgium.
It is worth noting that although this is a high-value matchup, there is not much individual heroism on the field, but more tactical games and cooperation between teams. This slow-paced but strategic approach to the game shows a different side of European football.
Portugal won the penalty shoot-out, and the team's strength was revealed
Another high-profile match is Portugal vs. Slovenia. Facing opponents who are far below them, Portugal were unable to show an overwhelming advantage in this game. The two sides went on a fast-paced pitch but failed to find the back of the net in 90 minutes of regular time and extra time.
In extra time, Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty opportunity, which undoubtedly put a lot of pressure on the team. However, in the subsequent penalty shootout, Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa played bravely and saved three penalties in a row, while Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, B Fei and B Xi all hit, and finally won the penalty shootout with a score of 3-0 and successfully advanced to the quarterfinals.
The quarterfinals of the European Cup are out, and the heavyweight showdown is imminent
With France and Portugal qualifying, the quarter-finals of this tournament are gradually becoming clear. Spain, Germany, France, Portugal, England and Switzerland have all made the cut, and the next match is even more exciting.
In the top half, Spain will face Germany, which is undoubtedly a battle of strength and history. Both teams have illustrious football traditions, and their matchups are sure to attract a lot of attention. The other highlight clash is France versus Portugal, with it will be interesting to see who will come out on top between the two teams that have just qualified for the quarter-finals.
In the second half, England vs. Switzerland, there was no shortage of highlights. England have produced a lot of young talent in recent years, while Switzerland have a reputation for solidity, and the clash between the two teams will be a clash of power and skill.
Tactics and superstars coexist, and the European Championship is full of charm
So far in this European Championship, the combination of tactical diversity and individual ability of superstars has made the game full of uncertainty and spectacle. Whether it is France's wing-back-driven attack, or Portugal's attacking system with Cristiano Ronaldo at its core, it reflects the diversity and inclusiveness of modern football.
At the same time, the phenomenon of own goals in this European Cup is also quite interesting. In the match between France and Belgium, Vertonghen's own goal became the turning point of the game, which also reflected the serendipitous and dramatic nature of the football game.
As the game progresses, the tactical game between the teams and the superstar play will be the key to determining the outcome of the game. In the next quarter-finals, we look forward to seeing more exciting matchups and unexpected results. The flames of the European Championship are back in flames, and we will wait and see who will win the eventually.