Antoine Griezmann of France celebrates after scoring a goal against Germany.
Two goals from Antoine
Griezmann helped hosts France overcome world champions Germany 2-0 on
Thursday to reach the final of Euro 2016, a first competitive victory
over their old rivals in 58 years.
Twice winners France will face Portugal in Sunday's final in Paris
after defending stoutly against a Germany side who dominated possession
but conceded a needless first-half penalty before being picked off on
the break in the second period.
Antoine Griezmann of France scores his team's goal.
Joachim Löw's side enjoyed
64% possession in the first half – but with the last kick of it, they
fell behind. Bastian Schweinsteiger blocked Patrice Evra's header with
his hand and Griezmann – who missed a penalty in the 2016 Champions
League final – made no mistake, sending Neuer the wrong way from the spot.
While France started the second period on the front foot, they were
swiftly and steadily pushed back as Germany sought a reply. However, the
France rearguard held its discipline and refused to allow clear
opportunities, while threatening on the break themselves.
France players celebrate after victory against Germany.
Just as Germany looked to be working up a head of steam, France struck again.
Griezmann poked in his sixth goal of the competition with 18 minutes
remaining, after keeper Manuel Neuer flapped at a cross, as France
wrapped up their first win over Germany at a major tournament since the
1958 World Cup.
German players react after their semi-final defeat against France.
Griezmann with 6 goals also became
only the second ever player after France legend Michel Platini to score
more than 5 goals at a European Championship.
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