England’s World Cup run ended in disappointment as they were eliminated despite putting on a solid effort against France in the quarterfinals at Al Bayt Stadium.
After matching Wayne Rooney’s record of 53 goals from the penalty spot for England, Harry Kane’s late penalty failure proved to be the game’s deciding factor.
When Aurelien Tchouameni’s 25-yard effort beat Jordan Pickford low to his right, France took the lead in the 17th minute.
Nine minutes after the half, after Tchouameni fouled Bukayo Saka, Kane successfully beat Tottenham teammate Hugo Lloris with his penalty. England had been the better team for long stretches and had generated chances.
Antoine Griezmann’s pinpoint cross gave France the advantage 12 minutes from time again. Still, England had a golden opportunity to equalize after Theo Hernandez fouled replacement Mason Mount in the box.
Kane had the chance to make history, but he shockingly blasted his penalties over the top, ending England’s World Cup hopes as France advanced to face Morocco in the semifinals.
FRANCE ARE THE FIRST REIGNING CHAMPIONS TO REACH THE SEMI-FINALS SINCE 1998! 🇫🇷🐓 pic.twitter.com/qsjnT5D3P9
— 433 (@433) December 10, 2022
Deschamps responds as France reaches World Cup semifinals
Didier Deschamps, the manager of France, claimed that his team’s victory over England and advancement to the World Cup semifinals required “heart and guts.”
After the game, Deschamps commented, “It’s great. It was a big game. We played a fantastic England side that is strong physically and technically.”
“The fact that the players are once more among the last four is fantastic. But tonight, we’re going to appreciate it, even though, in these moments, you wish time could stop for a while.”
“Despite giving up two penalties, we had a bit of luck. With all of our heart and soul, we maintained our lead.”
Giroud was also in a joyful mood following the game and described to reporters the moment he scored to seal the victory for his team.
“This 53rd-minute goal today is much better” (than equalling Henry). He remarked that I should have hit harder and scored correctly when I had the chance.”
“I believed I could have another chance, so scoring was a fantastic sensation when it presented itself.”
He continued, “You have to keep believing. “(Antoine Griezmann) passed me a great ball; it’s fantastic and so good for the squad.”
France are really into another #FIFAWorldCup semi-final… without this star power!
No Ballon d’Or in their team. No worries. Les Bleus are eyeing back-to-back World Cup triumphs.
Incredible | https://t.co/d7cPCTFPQT#OptusSport pic.twitter.com/xCRIGaHNlu
— Optus Sport (@OptusSport) December 11, 2022
Gareth Southgate is not rushing into a decision on his future
Gareth Southgate will take some time to think about his future because he wants to make sure he has the stamina to go again and that the choice is the best for the team.
According to England manager Southgate, it is difficult to exit a competition.
“However, I can only say that I am proud of the players and the way they handled the situation. The entire group has been outstanding. Everyone, even the employees, is included in it; they are a cohesive group.”
“They demonstrated it tonight. They showed the courage to play against a strong team and go toe-to-toe, take the ball, and be brave in how we attempted to defend.”
“Naturally, not flawless, and errors at both ends determined how the game turned out.”
“But we’ve once again demonstrated to the rest of the world that English football is vital and that we have some excellent players both now and in the future.”
Southgate stated, “I think anytime I complete these tournaments, I’ve needed time to make the right decisions.”
“You experience so many various emotions emotionally. These competitions require a tremendous amount of energy. Whatever it is, I want to make the best choice for the group, England, and the FA.”
“It’s right to take time to do that because I know in the past my feelings have changed in the immediate aftermath of tournaments. I’ve got to make sure whatever decision I make is the right one.”
