France beats Germany; Team advances to face Portugal

For the first time since 1958, France has defeated Germany and will be advancing to face Portugal in the finals of Euro 2016.

In front of a raucous crowd in Marseille, France started strong but soon struggled under constant German possession in the first 30 minutes.

The game turned seconds before halftime, when Germany was whistled for a handball inside the penalty area. There was definitely contact, but fans will debate for years if the timing was right to award a penalty. Either way, Griezmann beat Neuer to put France ahead at the break.

With a lead in the second half, France emerged from the tunnel confident and dangerous. Looking more like the teams that bounced Iceland 5-2, they scored the second goal with just under 20 minutes remaining. Crafty footwork gave Pogba room for a cross, and Neuer tipped the ball straight to Griezmann, who pounded a low shot home to seal Germany’s fate.

France is now on to the final, and continues to have home success in major tournaments. They’ve now gone 18 straight home games at major tournaments without a loss, and can raise the trophy for Euro 2016 with a win over Portugal on Sunday.

Category: Football