Historic Clashes Between France and Portugal
In terms of confrontations between France and Portugal, the complete history does not say much about the few fierce matches that the two selections have fought over the last 40 years, mainly at the Euro. Overall, France and Portugal have faced each other 28 times since 1926. The Blues have 19 victories, the Seleção, 6. The two teams have drawn three times. France scored 52 goals, Portugal, 31. The last confrontation between the two teams consisted of a 2-2 draw in the 3rd group match of the 2021 edition of the Euro. Ronaldo scored twice from a penalty and Karim Benzema also scored twice, including a penalty.
Memorable Matches in Euro History
The moments that really matter between the two countries are three matches played within the framework of the Euro, in 1984, 2000 and 2016, which have passed into posterity. Three pieces of bravery to which should be added a duller World Cup semi-final in 2006. Guided tour of the great France-Portugals of history. In Euro 1984, the semi-final in Marseille saw France win 3-2 after extra time. This match is often remembered as one of the best, with Michel Platini's last-minute goal sending France to the final. In Euro 2000, the semi-final in Brussels ended with a 2-1 victory for France after extra time, thanks to Zinedine Zidane's golden goal. The 2006 World Cup semi-final in Munich saw France win 1-0 with a penalty from Zidane. In Euro 2016, Portugal won 1-0 in extra time, securing their first major title.
Mbappe's Admiration for Ronaldo
Frenchman Kylian Mbappe has long admired Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo. Mbappe used to paste pictures of Ronaldo on the walls of his bedroom and even met him for the first time in 2009 during a Champions League match between Marseille and Real Madrid. Now, Mbappe will face his childhood hero again when France meets Portugal in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals. Mbappe expressed his admiration for Ronaldo, stating, 'It is a great honor to play against him. Everyone knows how much I admire Ronaldo. He is an exceptional player. There will never be another Cristiano Ronaldo.' Despite his respect for Ronaldo, Mbappe hopes to lead France to victory. The upcoming match will be a repeat of the 2016 final, where Portugal won the championship title. Both teams are expected to give a tough fight, with small details likely deciding the outcome.
