France’s 1-0 victory over Belgium in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals showcased a defensive masterclass that left their opponents frustrated and unable to break through. The game was a dull affair in terms of goal-scoring opportunities, with just four shots on target and an overall game xG of 1.25. However, it highlighted France’s ability to nullify their opposition and close down every possible attacking avenue. Despite Belgium’s tactical shortcomings and poor decision-making, they could not find a way past France’s solid defensive structure.
One glaring issue for France throughout the tournament has been their struggle to score goals from open play. In their four games leading up to the quarterfinal, they had only managed to find the back of the net through two own goals and a penalty. Their overreliance on fortunate circumstances rather than creative attacking play raises concerns about their ability to go all the way and win the tournament. The lack of offensive firepower was evident in their match against Belgium, where they needed an 85th-minute own goal to secure the victory.
Didier Deschamps, the mastermind behind France’s defensive resilience, has instilled a pragmatic and disciplined approach in his players. He prioritizes defensive solidity and collective effort over flashy attacking play, drawing inspiration from his playing days in Italy in the 1990s. Deschamps’ emphasis on structure and aggression has been key to France’s success under his tenure as head coach. Despite criticisms of France’s defensive style being boring, Deschamps remains focused on winning at all costs, highlighting the importance of a strong defensive foundation in achieving success.
At the heart of France’s defensive excellence are players like William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, and goalkeeper Mike Maignan, who form a formidable defensive unit capable of shutting down even the most potent of attackers. Their ability to control the tempo of the game and limit their opponents’ chances is a testament to Deschamps’ defensive tactics. The defensive trio’s exceptional performance against Belgium’s attacking threats showcased France’s ability to adapt and execute their game plan effectively.
Deschamps’ tactical flexibility has been a key factor in France’s success, as he has utilized four different systems in four games to maximize the team’s potential. His ability to rotate players and make crucial substitutions demonstrates his faith in the squad’s depth and versatility. Players like Adrien Rabiot, Youssouf Fofana, Eduardo Camavinga, Ousmane Dembélé, and Bradley Barcola have all played important roles in France’s campaign, showcasing the team’s collective mentality and readiness to contribute whenever called upon.
As France advances to the quarterfinals of the tournament, the team faces a tough challenge against Portugal. Their defensive prowess will once again be put to the test against a formidable opponent, with Deschamps’ tactical acumen likely to play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the match. Despite their offensive struggles, France’s ability to grind out results and stifle their opponents make them a strong contender to lift the European Championship trophy for the first time since 2000.
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