Portugal 2-2 France: Hits and Flops as Portugal survive the group of death | UEFA Euro 2020

Cristiano Ronaldo, never in doubt
Cristiano Ronaldo, never in doubt

#3 Hit - Cristiano Ronaldo

Portugal v France - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F
Portugal v France - UEFA Euro 2020: Group F

Whenever Portugal score, talisman Ronaldo is involved almost every time. Even against the world champions the 36-year old superstar edged his side in front from the penalty spot. That goal meant Cristiano became the first European in World Cup and Euros history to score a combined 20 goals across the two competitions.

Ronaldo wasn't done for the night. Koundé blocked a Ronaldo cross with his arm and Portugal were awarded another penalty. Ronaldo made no mistake from the spot and put his country level while also equalling the all-time international scoring record.

It was a big night for Portugal's #7 and his efforts made sure his country qualified for the knockout rounds. The defending champions aren't done yet at Euro 2020.

#2 Flop - Lucas Hernandez

A night to forget for Lucas Hernandez at Euro 2020
A night to forget for Lucas Hernandez at Euro 2020

Lucas Hernandez had a night to forget in an all-important game for his country. The French left-back had trouble dealing with Bernardo Silva on the left flank and was even cautioned for a rash foul.

The 25-year old had zero clearances, blocks, interceptions and tackles while he was on the pitch. He was replaced by Lucas Digne at half-time as Didier Deschamps looked to avoid any suspensions.

An injury to Lucas Digne means Hernandez will get a chance to prove himself against Switzerland in the round of 16 at Euro 2020.

#1 Hit - Karim Benzema

A brace for Karim Benzema at Euro 2020 vs. Portugal
A brace for Karim Benzema at Euro 2020 vs. Portugal

After struggling so far in this Euro 2020 campaign and facing criticism, Karim Benzema responded to critics with two significant goals that helped his team top Group F.

Karim Benzema scored two goals in around five minutes, an equalizer towards the end of the first-half and the second early in the second-half, to put his team in control of the game.

Although the penalty was controversial and not the right call, it was dispatched with authority by the Real Madrid striker. The second goal was even better as Benzema made a smart run and fired in low off the far post.

France will be happy to see Benzema on the scoresheet just before the knockout rounds of Euro 2020. The 33-year old has found his form at the right time and will have a huge role to play in upcoming games.

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Edited by Rohit Mishra
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