A late own goal by Belgian defender Jan Vertonghen sent France into the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 at the expense of their neighbors Belgium in a closely-contested Round of 16 clash.
According to reports by BBC News, The match had been a cagey and largely uneventful affair for long stretches, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances. France had enjoyed the greater share of possession and territorial dominance, but lacked the clinical edge to break the deadlock, with even their star striker Kylian Mbappe uncharacteristically wayward with some of his efforts.
Just as the game looked destined for extra time, a shot by French substitute Randal Kolo Muani took a crucial deflection off Vertonghen in the 85th minute to wrong-foot the Belgian goalkeeper and seal the victory for the defending champions.
Belgium did have their chances, with Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne forcing a good save from Mike Maignan in the second half, but they were ultimately unable to find the breakthrough.
The win means France will now face either Portugal or Slovenia in the quarter-finals as they continue their quest to defend the European title they won in 2020. For Belgium, it's a disappointing exit at the Round of 16 stage, failing to build on their run to the semi-finals four years ago.