Football

Kylian Mbappe, the talismanic forward for France, has yet to reach his peak performance at Euro 2024 despite leading his team into the quarter-finals against Portugal on Friday. The tournament has been overshadowed by speculation about his club future and a broken nose sustained in the opening match.Mbappe, 25, will once again don a protective face mask in Hamburg, a necessity after the injury he suffered against Austria. Despite his discomfort with the mask, he remains the focal point of a French team that has reached the quarter-finals with just three goals in four matches.France's Expected Goals (XG) metric, which measures the quality of chances created, stands at nearly seven, surpassed only by Spain, Portugal, and Germany. Mbappe's own XG is 2.54, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo and Kai Havertz.Mbappe's frustration stems from his inability to replicate his success at the World Cups at the Euros. He was instrumental in France's triumphs in Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022, scoring a hat-trick in the latter's final defeat to Argentina. However, his only goal in seven Euros appearances is a penalty against Poland."My Euros didn't start like I wanted, but I am here to help the team and I really want to have success with this team," Mbappe said before the victory against Belgium. "The Euros is the only thing I have not won with the national team, so I really want to win it."France assistant coach Guy Stephan acknowledged that Mbappe was "traumatized" by the collision that resulted in his broken nose. Additionally, his difficult final season at Paris Saint-Germain may have contributed to his subdued form.Mbappe's impending clash with Portugal holds added significance as he faces his boyhood hero, Cristiano Ronaldo. The completion of his move to Real Madrid has fulfilled a long-held dream, and his admiration for Ronaldo played a role in his decision.Now, Mbappe has the opportunity to become the star in Madrid, where Ronaldo reigned supreme for nearly a decade. However, he knows that to keep his dream of winning the European Championship alive, he must first overcome Portugal and potentially end Ronaldo's illustrious international career.

Toni Kroos, the decorated German midfielder, expressed optimism ahead of Friday's Euro 2024 quarter-final clash against Spain, asserting that it may not be his final career appearance. Despite announcing his retirement after the Euros, Kroos remains determined to extend his international journey.Kroos's Real Madrid teammate, Joselu, had expressed a desire to "send Kroos into retirement," but the 34-year-old remains focused on reaching the July 14 Euros final in Berlin. "We will still be in the tournament for a while," Kroos stated. "I don't think tomorrow will be my last game. I think we'll see each other again -- and I look forward to it."Kroos, a key member of Germany's 2014 World Cup triumph, initially retired from international football in 2021 but returned in March. "The idea of returning was tied to the goal of winning the Euros," he explained. "If I didn't see the chance of achieving it with the team, I wouldn't have done it."Despite his impending retirement, Kroos expressed no trepidation about life after football. "This day will come for every player," he said. "Thank god I could make the decision myself, rather than anyone pushing me or making me feel that it might be better to do it earlier."Kroos acknowledged that his footballing abilities are unmatched by any other pursuit. "I am aware that whatever comes along, or what hobbies I might try and take up, there will never be anything I am as good at as playing football."The six-time Champions League winner made his debut for Bayern Munich in 2007, the same year that Spain's Lamine Yamal was born. "That doesn't make me feel much younger," Kroos joked, describing Yamal as "the best or at least the most dangerous player" for Barcelona this season.

The UEFA Euro 2024 quarter-finals are set to deliver a thrilling spectacle, with some of the tournament's biggest names vying for glory. The draw has produced a tantalizing mix of heavyweights and underdogs, promising an unforgettable knockout stage.The first quarter-final, on July 5, pits tournament favorites Germany against Spain, two teams that have showcased exceptional form and attacking prowess. This clash of titans is likely to be a tactical battleground, with both sides boasting world-class players.The second quarter-final, on July 6, features a mouthwatering encounter between Portugal and France. These two nations played out a thrilling 2-2 draw in Euro 2020, and the rematch promises to be equally captivating. Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe, two of the game's biggest stars, will be eager to make their mark on the tournament.Switzerland, the surprise package of Euro 2024, faces England in the third quarter-final. The Swiss have proven their mettle by dispatching defending champions Italy, while England has relied heavily on the brilliance of Jude Bellingham. This match-up is likely to be a close and competitive affair.The final quarter-final, on July 7, sees the Netherlands take on Turkey. The Dutch have impressed with their attacking flair, while Turkey has shown resilience and determination. This clash could produce an upset, as Turkey aims to continue their giant-killing run.The winners of the quarter-finals will advance to the semi-finals, where they will face off for a place in the final. The tournament is poised to deliver an unforgettable knockout stage, with some of the world's best teams battling for European supremacy.

Turkey and the Netherlands have secured their places in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 after thrilling victories in the round of 16.Turkey, who last reached the last eight of a European Championship in 2008, stunned Austria 2-1 in a pulsating encounter in Leipzig. Merih Demiral emerged as the unlikely hero for Turkey, scoring a stunning header just before the hour mark to seal the victory. The Al-Ahli defender had earlier given his team a dream start by bundling the ball home in the opening minute.Austria, who were also making their first appearance in the knockout stages of a major tournament since 2008, fought valiantly but were unable to find an equalizer despite dominating possession for much of the second half. Michael Gregoritsch halved the deficit shortly after Demiral's second goal, but Christoph Baumgartner's late effort was denied by an incredible save from Mert Gunok.In the other quarter-final, the Netherlands eased past Romania 3-0 in Munich. Cody Gakpo opened the scoring for the Dutch in the 20th minute, before Donyell Malen added a brace in the second half. The victory was a welcome boost for Ronald Koeman's side, who had come under fire after their disappointing performance in the group stage.Turkey will now face the Netherlands in Berlin on Saturday, while the winner of that match will play either England or Switzerland in the semi-finals.

Portugal's relentless determination and Diogo Costa's heroic saves propelled them to a hard-fought 3-0 penalty shootout victory over a resilient Slovenia in the Euro 2024 Round of 16. The match, played in Hamburg, Germany, was a tense affair that saw both teams battle valiantly for a place in the quarterfinals.After a scoreless 90 minutes, the game entered extra time, where Cristiano Ronaldo had a golden opportunity to break the deadlock from the penalty spot. However, Slovenia's goalkeeper, Jan Oblak, made a brilliant save, denying the Portuguese captain a chance to add to his legendary tally.As the game remained deadlocked, it went to a penalty shootout. Josep Ilicic's first kick for Slovenia was saved by Costa, giving Portugal an early advantage. Ronaldo stepped up and calmly converted his spot-kick, putting his team ahead. Jure Balkovec's subsequent miss for Slovenia sealed their fate.Costa continued his heroics, saving Benjamin Verbic's penalty, setting the stage for Bernardo Silva to confidently slot home the winning spot-kick. Portugal's victory was a testament to their resilience and the brilliance of their goalkeeper.In the quarterfinals, Portugal will face a formidable challenge in the form of France, who defeated Germany in their Round of 16 match. The two European powerhouses will clash in Hamburg on Friday, with a place in the semifinals at stake.

As the European Championship enters its knockout stages, two of the tournament's favorites, France and Belgium, find themselves in an unexpected predicament. Both teams failed to secure top spots in their respective groups, setting up a head-on collision in Duesseldorf on Monday.France's vaunted attack has been plagued by a crisis of confidence. Despite boasting world-class talent like Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema, the French have scored just two goals in their opening three matches, one of which was a penalty. Coach Didier Deschamps is facing a dilemma over whether to restore Antoine Griezmann to the lineup and pair him with Mbappe up front.Belgium's situation is equally concerning. After limping into the next stage with a draw against Ukraine, they were subjected to a barrage of criticism from their own supporters. Captain Kevin De Bruyne has expressed his displeasure with the hostile reaction, and his attitude will set the tone for the rest of the Belgian side.Romelu Lukaku, Belgium's record goalscorer, has yet to find his scoring touch in the tournament. His poor form is a major concern for a team that relies heavily on his goals.Deschamps and Belgium coach Roberto Martinez have some tough decisions to make ahead of Monday's clash. Both teams will be desperate to avoid an early exit and prove that they are still contenders for the title.The winner of the France-Belgium match will face Portugal or Slovenia in the quarter-finals. The match is scheduled to kick off at 9.30 p.m. on July 1.

Spain, the formidable force in European football, will face off against Georgia in the Round of 16 of Euro 2024. The match, scheduled for Monday, July 1, will be a crucial test for both teams as they vie for a spot in the quarterfinals.Spain, despite entering the tournament without the overwhelming favoritism of France or England, has emerged as a serious contender. Their impressive performance in the group stage, where they topped Group B with a perfect record and three clean sheets, has instilled confidence within the team.One of the standout performers for Spain has been 16-year-old starlet Lamine Yamal. Despite balancing his studies with the tournament, Yamal has showcased his exceptional talent in Spain's first two matches. The news of passing his secondary school exams has further boosted his morale ahead of the crucial knockout clash.Georgia, making their debut in the Euro, will be eager to make a statement against the tournament favorites. They will rely on their defensive solidity and counter-attacking prowess to upset Spain.The match will be played at the Cologne Stadium in Germany, with kickoff scheduled for 12:30 AM IST. Fans can catch the live telecast on the Sony Sports Network, while the live streaming will be available on the SonyLiv app and website.Spain will be looking to continue their impressive form and reach the quarterfinals, while Georgia will be determined to cause an upset and make history in their first Euro appearance. The match promises to be an exciting and closely contested affair.

Italy's Euro 2024 campaign ended in a humiliating fashion as they were eliminated in the last 16 by Switzerland. The four-time world champions and reigning European champions were outplayed by the Swiss in Berlin, losing 1-0.The defeat was the latest in a series of disappointing results for Italy, who have now failed to qualify for the last two World Cups. It also raised questions about the future of manager Luciano Spalletti, who has been in charge for less than a year.Italy were second best for much of the match against Switzerland. They were pinned back in their own half for long periods and struggled to create any clear-cut chances.Ruben Vargas scored the only goal of the game just seconds after half-time. The Swiss forward took advantage of some poor defending from Italy to fire home from close range.Italy never really recovered from that setback. They continued to struggle to create chances and were unable to find a way back into the game.The defeat was a major disappointment for Italy, who had been hoping to defend their European title. It also raised concerns about the team's future.Spalletti has come under fire for his team's poor performances. He has been accused of being too negative and of not getting the best out of his players.The Italian media are already calling for Spalletti to be sacked. It remains to be seen whether he will be given the chance to turn things around.

Slovenia's historic Euro 2024 campaign has reached the last-16 stage, where they face the formidable Portugal. Despite their impressive unbeaten run, Slovenia's star striker Benjamin Sesko has yet to find the back of the net.Sesko's absence from the scoresheet is a departure from his prolific form for RB Leipzig, where he scored in each of his last seven games. His versatility as a striker is evident in his ability to score with his head, unleash fierce strikes from distance, and possess exceptional speed and physicality.Despite Sesko's goal drought, Slovenia has shown resilience and determination in their group stage matches. They held England to a 1-1 draw, narrowly missed out on a victory against Denmark, and drew with Serbia in a heart-wrenching 1-1 tie.Their third-place finish in Group C sets up a clash with Portugal, who impressed with wins over Czech Republic and Turkey. However, Portugal's talismanic forward Cristiano Ronaldo has also failed to score in the tournament.Ronaldo, despite his advancing age, remains a pivotal figure for Portugal. His experience and leadership will be crucial against Slovenia, who will be looking to exploit any weaknesses in the Portuguese defense.Sesko, who was just a toddler when Ronaldo made his Euro debut in 2004, will be eager to make his mark on the tournament. His potential and the underdog status of Slovenia could inspire a similar upset to Greece's victory over Portugal in the 2004 final.