France midfielder Adrien Rabiot hailed his side’s victory over Belgium at Uefa Euro 2024 but dismissed referee Glenn Nyberg’s “harsh” letter to send off Les Bleus in the quarter-finals.
Randal Kolo Muani’s away goal was deflected by goalkeeper Koen Casteels onto Jan Vertonghen’s knee, leading to the game seemingly destined for extra time in the 85th minute.
“We could have won by more,” said Rabiot, via L’Equipe. “We were in possession of the ball and controlling the game. They are very protective. We pushed until the end and won.
“We are very good; very strong, with a very compact block. We were very good in face-to-face duels – that’s our strength. We didn’t give up, it’s a big victory.”
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Euro 2024: France beat Belgium
France is considered by many to be the favorites for this title, but what is surprising is that they started well in the final as they continue to wait for an open goal in Germany.
The winners had 19 of the 24 shots between the teams but only two were on target, with talented striker Kylian Mbappe again looking very short in attack.
When asked about coach Didier Deschamps’ decision to go from 4-4-2 to 4-3-3, Rabiot said: “You have to ask him why. This coach decided to do it differently today. We are professional and flexible.”
GOING TOGETHER! 💙✨
🇫🇷1-0🇧🇪 | #FRABEL | #FiersdetreBleus pic.twitter.com/8Eat9oaiFj
– French Team ⭐⭐ (@FrenchTeam) July 1, 2024
Euro 2024 quarterfinals: Rabiot is out
After receiving a yellow card, Rabiot said he was “disgusted” to be suspended for the semi-final against Portugal or Slovenia on July 5 in Hamburg.
“The referee was harsh,” said the Juventus player. “I will be away for a while but there are guys who will do the job. I am confident about the future. I hope to be back in the semi final.”
Rabiot was impressed with striker Muani and defender William Saliba. “He is very important, like everyone else,” he said of Muani.
“The coach always repeats it: there is space [for squad members to come in]. This is also what makes us strong: we are very united.
“I found him to be very good, but everyone was suitable for the job. They were very good defensively. Jules [Kounde played well] one against [Belgium winger Jeremy] Doc.”
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