France secured a spot in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals at Belgium’s expense thanks to a late own goal by Jan Vertonghen. The match, which lacked excitement for much of its duration, seemed headed for extra time until substitute Randal Kolo Muani’s shot deflected off Vertonghen with five minutes remaining, clinching victory at Dusseldorf Arena.

Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, France struggled to convert opportunities throughout the game. Captain Kylian Mbappe and others missed key chances, highlighting their ongoing issue with finishing. Belgium had a few chances of their own, notably Kevin de Bruyne’s shot saved by Mike Maignan, but failed to capitalize.

France’s victory, though deserved, underscores their need for improvement in converting chances into goals. They managed only one shot on target in the first half and finished the game with 19 attempts but just two on target. Despite these challenges, they advance to face either Portugal or Slovenia in the quarter-finals.

Didier Deschamps’ team will be relieved to progress but recognizes the need to elevate their performance levels as they aim for the tournament’s latter stages.