Portugal 0-0 France (PEN 5-4): Player ratings as Mbappe and co end Ronaldo’s dream on penalty drama

Kylian Mbappe Plays Through Pain as France Beat Portugal on Penalties in UEFA Euro 2024 Quarterfinals

Kylian Mbappe played through pain to help France secure a dramatic 5-3 penalty shootout win over Portugal in the UEFA Euro 2024 quarterfinals, following a tense goalless draw. This result likely ends Cristiano Ronaldo’s pursuit of major international honors.

At 39, Ronaldo struggled to make a significant impact in the match, a stark contrast to his prime. Meanwhile, Mbappe, despite flashes of brilliance and some long-range attempts, couldn’t find the back of the net, possibly still hampered by the protective mask for his broken nose. He was also involved defensively, blocking a header from his former Monaco teammate Bernardo Silva, before being substituted in extra time due to the injury.

France, however, held their nerve in the shootout. Ousmane Dembele, Youssouf Fofana, Jules Kounde, and Bradley Barcola all converted their penalties. Theo Hernandez scored the decisive spot-kick after Joao Felix’s effort hit the post. Portugal’s Ronaldo, Bernardo Silva, and Nuno Mendes were successful from the spot, but it wasn’t enough.

The match featured few clear-cut chances, with both teams remaining cagey. France’s goalkeeper, Mike Maignan, made a crucial save from Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha in the second half. Portugal’s Ruben Dias also intervened to stop Randal Kolo Muani, while Eduardo Camavinga missed a golden opportunity.

In extra time, Ronaldo squandered Portugal’s best chance, shooting over the bar after excellent play from substitute Francisco Conceição. Questions may now be raised about coach Roberto Martinez’s decision to keep the aging Ronaldo on the field while leaving talents like Pedro Neto, Diogo Jota, and Gonçalo Ramos on the bench.

Despite the heartbreak, Portugal can take solace in the performances of emerging stars like Rafael Leão and Francisco Conceição, showcasing the depth of talent in their squad, which could shine once Ronaldo steps aside.

France Player ratings

Mike Maignan – 7/10

Jules Kounde – 6/10

Dayot Upamecano – 6/10

William Saliba – 7/10

Theo Hernandez – 6/10

N’Golo Kante – 7/10

Aurelien Tchouameni – 6/10

Eduardo Camavinga – 6/10

Antoine Griezmann – 6/10

Kylian Mbappe – 6/10

Randal Kolo Muani – 6/10

Substitutes:

Ousmane Dembele – 7/10

Marcus Thuram – 6/10

Youssouf Fofana – 6/10

Bradley Barcola – 6/10

Portugal  Player rating

Diogo Costa – 7/10

Joao Cancelo – 6/10

Ruben Dias – 7/10

Pepe – 6/10

Nuno Mendes – 6/10

Vitinha – 6/10

Joao Palhina – 6/10

Bernardo Silva – 6/10

Bruno Fernandes – 6/10