The French futsal team continues to progress. After an incredible semi-final for their first participation in the World Cup in 2024, the Blues this time reach the last four of the Euro.
Yet not favorites against the experienced Ukrainians, 8th in the world, the French, ranked 10th in the Fifa rankings, were able to count on an immense Francis Lokoka. The goalkeeper made numerous saves and kept his own afloat, especially at the start of the match.
Against the flow of play, Amine Gueddoura opened the scoring after a nice collective movement (28th). But just two minutes later, Abdessamad Mohammed stopped the ball with his hand as it headed into the net. Red card and penalty, transformed by the Ukrainians to return to equality (30th).
Three goals in overtime
The last ten minutes of regulation time were tough, marked by protests and saves from Lokoka. Before the decision is made in overtime. Souheil Mouhoudine converted a well-placed free kick (42nd), before making the break with a dry strike. In the last seconds, and while Ukraine had released its goalkeeper to force the French lock, Mouhoudine, again, hit the nail on the head by scoring in an empty goal.
Korsun’s reduction in the gap, on a penalty (48th), remains anecdotal and the Blues can savor an authentic exploit. For the first time, they reach the final four of the Euro, where they will find Portugal, 2nd in the Fifa ranking and favorite of the competition, or Belgium. The meeting will be held in Ljubljana on Wednesday February 4, at a time to be determined.
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