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France 1 - 0 Portugal


After the first semi final the night before this game was a disappointment. Football is a spectator sport the aim of which should be to score goals, not to get one and then to defend at all costs, to win at any price!


France were awarded a penalty in the 31st minute against the run of play. Henry was brought down in the area, and the gifted Zidane, slammed the ball past penalty saver extraordinaire Ricardo. Thereafter, France seemed to want only to defend their narrow lead, packing everybody back into their own half, until the game was over.


The controversial, diving, Ronaldo was possibly Portugal’s best player but he is becoming almost as well known for his dramatics as for his football, which did not escape the French fans. In the 77th minute he lashed a dubiously awarded free kick towards goal and Barthez fumbled and 'squirted' the ball upwards. Figo should have headed in, but his header was no better than Barthez's fumble, and the ball went over the crossbar.


Basically, that was it. France are in the final. It would be dangerous to believe that they could repeat this performance against an attacking Italy. So come on guys - play the game!


Tags:
soccer and football
soccer and football