(Getty)
Final Score
Germany 0-0 0
France 1-1 2
Box Score
For the first time since 1958, France have defeated Germany and will be advancing to face Portugal in the finals of Euro 2016.
In front of a raucous crowd in Marseille, France started strong but soon struggled under constant German possession in the first 30 minutes.
The game turned seconds before halftime, when Germany was whistled for a handball inside the penalty area. There was definitely contact, but fans will debate for years if the timing was right to award a penalty. Either way, Griezmann beat Neuer to put France ahead at the break.
With a lead in the second half, France emerged from the tunnel confident and dangerous. Looking more like the teams that bounced Iceland 5-2, they scored the second goal with just under 20 minutes remaining. Crafty footwork gave Pogba room for a cross, and Neuer tipped the ball straight to Griezmann, who pounded a low shot home to seal Germany’s fate.
France are now on to the final, and continue to have home success in major tournaments. They’ve now gone 18 straight home games at major tournaments without a loss, and can raise the trophy for Euro 2016 with a win over Portugal on Sunday.
Griezmann’s Second May Send France to the Final
Antoine Griezmann: Has become only the 2nd ever player (after Michel Platini) to score more than 5 goals at a European Championship #GERFRA
France are less than 20 minutes away from the final, after Griezmann’s second goal has sent Marseille in a frenzy.
It starts with nifty footwork from Paul Pogba, whose cross threatened Germany’s area. The ball was tipped up by Neuer, but poked in by Griezmann for the 2-0 lead.
National hero. #FRAGER
Boateng’s Injury is Bad News for Germany
Already down several defenders, losing Jerome Boateng could be devestating. Low’s face says it all. Shkodran Mustafi is on to replace him, a competent defender but for sure a step down in quality. Another goal would be real trouble for Germany, who have slowed down considerably in the second half.
France Awarded Late Penalty
It’s a handball for Germany, and a penalty for France. Griezmann rockets the penalty home and France lead at the break. Incredible turn of events in Marseille in the final minutes before halftime.
Breakaway Chance for Giroud is Blocked
Olivier Giroud needed a 110th touch before shooting in a one-on-one before the defender gets back. A goal’s coming #FRAGER
In the 43rd minute Olivier Giroud won a header at midfield, and with a little more pace it looked like he was clear through to goal. But the Arsenal striker was run down by Benedikt Höwedes, who made a great move to block the attempt without making any contact. First half looks to end scoreless.
Germany Look in Control After 30 Minutes
The reigning World Cup champs look as much in the opening minutes, dominating possession and working the ball into France’s third. France have sparingly been able to break out, and have little to show for their performance save a good free kick attempt by Payet.