Despite playing in a way that was too harmless at times, the French also won their second game at the European Football Championship and secured the lead in Group D. Italy, on the other hand, had to tremble for progress after a lucky 1-1 (0-1) against Iceland.
France's footballers reached the quarter-finals of the European Championship in England without much glamor as group winners. The co-favourites defeated Belgium 2-1 (2-1) in Rotherham. With the second success, the French not only made progress perfectly, but also secured first place in Group D. This would make them possible opponents of Germany in the semifinals.
Kadidiatou Diani (6th) and Griedge Mbock Bathy (41st) shot a France that was too harmless in places into the next round, while Janice Cayman (36th) let the Belgians celebrate in the meantime. Wendie Renard (90th) failed for France with a penalty in the final phase and also missed the follow-up shot. Belgium's Amber Tysiak was responsible for the penalty with a handball and saw the yellow-red card. The French star striker Marie-Antoinette Katoto (Paris St. Germain) had to be replaced injured after 17 minutes.
Meanwhile, Italy is under pressure, having previously only drawn 1-1 (0-1) against the dominant Icelanders in Manchester. Valentina Bergamaschi (62nd) equalized the Icelandic lead through Karolina Vilhjalmsdottir (3rd). After losing 5-1 to France at the start, coach Milena Bertolini's side remain in fourth place. The Italians are tied on one point with Belgium, who are the last opponents in their group on Monday (9 p.m. in the ntv.de live ticker). Group runners-up Iceland, who challenge France at the same time, have two points.
