The Fan

Zidane penalty ends Portugal cup run

The Editor — Thu, July 6th 2006

France 1 - Portugal 0

After a first half penalty from Zinedine Zidane, France closed down the game with ease to qualify for the second World Cup final.

By the end of 90 minutes Portugal had gone over 4 1/2 hours without scoring a goal, and they looked like they could have played another 275 minutes without scoring as France totally sterilized the Portugese attack in the second half.

With Deco and Pauleta totally anonymous, it was largely left to Ronaldo to provide Portugal’s attacking impetus. The young Manchester Utd player received a stunning chorus of boos anytime he touched the ball, encouraged by the England fans who had tickets for the game hoping that their team would be there.

Ronaldo showed both sides of his game again. He was by far the best attacker on the pitch, but also reduced himself to a laughing stock as he continually dived for free kicks and penalties with the opposition nowhere near him. Unfortunately, the player seems to have no embarrassment, and even after the game (backed up by coach Scolari) blamed the referee for bias.

Portugal will not be missed from this tournament, despite the obvious skill that their players possess.

Sunday’s cup final between Italy and France will be intriguing, if only that for once Italy will be the more attacking team. France’s formation last night was an extremely defensive 4-2-3-1, with Makelele and Viera effectivley making up a 6 man defence. With France’s two wingers also dropping back, France often only had Zidane and Henry attacking on the break. It will be interesting to see how Italy attempt to break France down.

Listed in: Competitions, World Cup, Countries, France

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