France, Belgium, and Portugal have officially secured their spots at Euro 2024 after claiming victories on Friday.
In a bid to guarantee their qualification, these teams had to secure wins and were driven to victory by their standout players.
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Kylian Mbappe played a pivotal role in France’s triumph over the Netherlands in Amsterdam by scoring a brace. The PSG star found the back of the net on both sides of the halftime break, and despite Quilindschy Hartman pulling one back for the Netherlands with seven minutes remaining, France maintained their lead.
With this win, Didier Deschamps’ squad has the opportunity to vie for the title of European champions for the first time since 2000.
The France boss said: “We qualified but it was never easy.
“To be able to do it two games to go, even if there is room for improvement, I am very proud to see what this group has achieved.”
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Sevilla winger Dodi Lukebakio emerged as the hero for Belgium, securing their place in Germany with a 3-2 victory over Austria. The 26-year-old matched Kylian Mbappe’s two-goal performance, giving Domenico Tedesco’s team a comfortable lead before Romelu Lukaku extended it. Although Austria managed two late goals of their own, it was not enough.
Cristiano Ronaldo played a starring role for Portugal, leading them to a 3-2 victory and securing their spot in the upcoming competition. The Al-Hilal striker scored in both halves in an entertaining match against Slovakia, guaranteeing Roberto Martinez another opportunity at international silverware.
The draw for the tournament is scheduled for Saturday, December 2, with the 24 qualifying teams placed into six groups of four. All three of these teams will be considered favorites to contend for the championship, which commences on Friday, June 14.
Germany will feature in the tournament’s opening match in Munich, and the final is set to take place in Berlin on Sunday, July 14.
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