France after a 2-1 loss to Spain on Tuesday night, will head home to Paris rather than hang around to participate in third-place playoff
By Kehinde Okeowo
France have bowed out of Euro 2024 despite reaching the semi final of the tournament.
This is because unlike the World Cup and other football competitions, the Euros have no third-place fixtures, which usually takes place before the final.
On Tuesday night, Spain progressed into the final, thanks to a thrilling 2-1 win over France.
Randal Kolo Muani opened the scoring for the Les Bleus in the 18th minute but a sensational goal from 16-year-old phenomenon, Lamine Yamal helped Spain to restore parity.
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Dani Olmo then scored Spain’s second to ensure they come from behind and progress to the final.
Given UEFA’s stance on third-place playoff at Euros, the result means France will not be hanging around, as they have played their last fixture at the tournament.
The other semi-final will see England take on the Netherlands for the chance to play Spain in Sunday’s final.
There haven’t been any third-place matches at the Euros since 1980.
The last one being a 9-8 win on penalties for Czechoslovakia after they drew 1-1 with hosts Italy.