HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) – Following is reaction to France’s 5-3 shootout win over Portugal in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 following a 0-0 draw after extra time, with Theo Hernandez striking the winning penalty.
France goalkeeper Mike Maignan: “We knew it was going to be a tough game but we were solid in defence and we had a lot of mental strength and kept our cool during the shootout — that’s what made the difference.”
France defender William Saliba: “It was not an easy game, we suffered a lot. We had chances but thanks to Mike who kept us in the game. We defended all together. We knew we had not to leave any crumb to Ronaldo. Since the beginning of the competition we’ve been very solid because everyone defends together. We know that if we get a clean sheet we’re 90% through.”
Portugal defender Pepe: “Football is cruel … and sadness is part of it. We were aiming to win for our country and bring joy to our people. Five days ago we won on penalties and now we lost on penalties. It’s cruel. The most important thing is to congratulate my colleagues for their commitment to the game.”
Portugal midfielder Vitinha: “We gave everything we had and when it ends like this it hurts. Today it was for France, it could have been for us.”
(Reporting by Lori Ewing in Weimar, Germany, Sergio Goncalves in Lisbon and Julien Pretot in Paris)
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