France advance to Euro 2024 quarter-finals after late own goal by Belgium

France advanced against Belgium to the quarterfinals of the Euro 2024 thanks to a late own goal by Jan Vertonghen.

A shot by substitute Randal Kolo Muani bounced off Vertonghen with five minutes left at Dusseldorf Arena. The match appeared to be headed for extra time for most.

Prior to that, France had squandered multiple opportunities due to their inability to find a decisive edge despite captain Kylian Mbappe made an attempt.

Before France's late goal, Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne had a chance to put Belgium ahead as he raced into space through the middle, but Mike Maignan blocked his effort.

France have yet to score from open play in four matches at the tournament. Captain Mbappe netted once from a penalty against Poland, while their other two goals came from opposition defenders.

But they are rock solid in defence, having conceded only one goal, from a penalty, so far.

Their back line was outstanding against Romelu Lukaku and his fellow attackers, and Belgium bow out after what will be remembered as a disappointing tournament for them.

France had a point to prove at the Euros after being knocked out in the last 16 three years ago on penalties to Switzerland, a deeply disappointing result between runs to consecutive World Cup finals.

The French were widely seen as the favourites to win this tournament before arriving in Germany, but they were below par during the group phase.

Mbappe's men will face either Portugal or Slovenia, who will face later tonight.

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