Portugal clinches trophy without Cristiano

Portugal beat France 1-0 in the final of the Euro Cup 2016 thanks to a wonderful goal from the substitute Eder. Portugal won the European championship for the first time beating the hosting nation France. Portugal has faced a lot of criticism due to their non-impressive displays on the way to the final. But they kept finding a way and clinched the title without their talisman Cristiano Ronaldo on the pitch. The real Madrid star did start the match but suffered an injury during the course of the game and limped off the field in the first half itself. His tears told the whole story as it was quite clear that he was would not be able to continue following Dimitri Payet’s tackle.

Nobody expected Portugal to win the game from there as Ronaldo’s injury came as a huge blow for them. But the Portuguese fans were still dreaming with their broken hearts. However the first half belonged solely to France who had the best opportunities. Griezmann’s header was excellently pushed away from goal by Rui Patricio and Sissoko’s shot was well blocked by the Portuguese keeper. Giroud also had a half chance from the corner but his header was straight at Patricio. The win was Portugal’s maiden win against France and it came at the stage when both teams needed it the most.

France had 17 attempts on the Portuguese goal but perhaps luck was not on their side. France could not take advantage of their domination and failed to score within the regulation time which helped Portugal gain confidence as the game progressed. Gignac was the guilty party who hit the post at the closing stages of regulation time.  They went all square into extra time. In the 109^th minute substitute Eder shook the France defense and the whole nation as he hit the target from 20 yards wide and scored. The strike was so good that even a goal keeper of Hugo Lloris’s standard could not prevent the ball from hitting the nets. Despite some nervy and cagey dying moments Portugal managed to hold on to their lead and lift the title in front of a jam-packed stadium. France’s hopes were shattered and the whole nation came to a standstill. It was a heartbreaking loss if we look at France’s performances in the previous rounds. They were excellent in the previous rounds but failed to live up to the expectations at the final step. The party spoilers, Portugal celebrated their victory in style as Ronaldo joined the party with a sore left knee. This was arguably the best season he has had where he won two major trophies, one with his club and the other with his country. But we all have to admit that it was a stellar performance from Portugal without their talisman which got them the trophy. They showed real character and class as they portrayed their potential even without Ronaldo on Sunday. This is the best football website where you will get all the latest news from the world of football. Follow the site for more news and trivia.

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