France narrowly outstripped Belgium during the Euro 2024 round of 16 on a mundane Monday, teeing up a suspense-filled quarter-final clash with either Portugal or Slovenia.
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Antoine Griezmann took aim at scribes who had penned critiques, following France’s minimal yet sufficient 1-0 triumph over Belgium.
The critical own goal by Jan Vertonghen at the 85th minute propelled Les Bleus into the next stage of the tournament despite a lackluster showing.
Thus far, lady luck smiled twice on France, as their opener against Austria also concluded with an opponent’s blunder.
Kylian Mbappe remains the solo French player to puncture the net this tournament, his debut score at the European Championships coming from a penalty against Poland. However, France’s drought for a goal during regular play marches on.
Griezmann, chafed by hints of an inadequate victory and queries about his positional shift, responded tartly to BeIN Sports, “Spare us the grievances about the slender margin or my role switch; we’ve punched our ticket to the quarter-finals. A sturdy defence carried the day. We’re molding ourselves to a fresh formation.”
“Today brought news of my assignment to the right. I’m here to serve at the coach’s and team’s discretion. Coach positions me, I deliver,” Griezmann declared, underscoring his dedication regardless of his role.
He added, having the coach’s trust, he aimed to reciprocate fully on the field.
Adrien Rabiot brooded over a first-half caution—his tourney’s second—that benched him for the upcoming match.
Despite his personal setback, he celebrated their hard-fought victory, noting to RMC, “The goal came as an immense relief. We executed well, showcased our tight defensive chops and knack for regaining possession.”
“Getting carded was a bitter pill, marred somewhat by the game’s initial officiating. Yet, my confidence in our bench depth remains, and I’ll be cheering from the sidelines,” Rabiot reflected.
