Portugal will face France in the quarter-finals of UEFA Euro 2024 at the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg, which is sure to be a battle between two giants. This match, which has been highly anticipated by many fans, could see some dazzling skills and tactics on display as well as individual talents.
Date: Friday 5th July 2024,
Time: 21:00 CET (Central European Time)
Location:Volksparkstadion, Hamburg
Stage:UEFA EURO 2024 Quarter-final
Ways to watch
All football enthusiasts can either catch up with their local UEFA Euro broadcasters or follow developments through official UEFA website and app.
The Context
Even though both teams have not been firing on all cylinders so far in this competition, it is an opportunity for them to cement their status as strong contenders for the title. The clash will feature a galaxy of stars across the pitch but all eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappé. It’s still likely that defensive performances may determine the outcome of this game.
While Portugal’s goalkeeper Diogo Costa saved three penalties during a shootout against Slovenia, France’s solid defense has kept three clean sheets out of four matches including outstanding contributions from Jules Koundé and William Saliba. The battle for supremacy in midfield and defence might be just as exciting as that upfront.
Carlos Machado – Portuguese football expert – believes that Portugal must be tactically smart enough to endure long spells of defending against a very good French side. He points out the need for clinical finishing when they get chances, as shown by their past victories against Les Bleus.
French football analyst Alex Clementson describes this match as nearly being worthy of a final. Despite acknowledging France’s problems in front of goal recently, he is optimistic about them improving further. For the French coach Didier Deschamps, it will be essential to address their lack of goals to overcome a stubborn Portuguese side.
The Journey So Far
Portugal topped Group F with wins over Czechia and Türkiye before losing to Georgia. In the round of 16, they then beat Slovenia on penalties. On the other hand, France finished with an unbeaten record in group D after drawing Netherlands and Poland but narrowly beating Austria and Belgium.
Coach Perspectives
Roberto Martínez says his Portugal team are ready for what is coming from France. He acknowledges how strong France are but Martínez thinks that Portugal can create more opportunities and exploit spaces behind their opposition lines.
Deschamp insists teamwork, solidity and hard work must go hand in hand with individual talent development. There has been an increasing level of physical intensity in this tournament till now; therefore each detail has to be taken into account by his team.
A big quarter-final match at the Volksparkstadion, Hamburg witnessed Portugal losing to Kylian Mbappé’s France in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. The match was a repeat of the Euro 2016 final and ended goalless after 120 minutes of barren football, thereby setting up an exciting climax.
A Clash of Titans
It was much anticipated as these were two pre-tournament favorites. However, both sides have struggled to find their rhythm earlier on. Portugal had not scored any goals in their last two group matches against Georgia and Slovenia after winning the first two. Also inconsistent although showing sparks of brilliance were France.
First Half: A Cagey Affair
The first half was well contested with both teams prioritizing their defense. Diego Costa made important saves from Portugal’s strike force; Kolo Muani and Mbappé for France. Nevertheless, despite controlling possession and creating better chances than their rivals, they went into half time level with no goals each.
Second Half: Desperation Sets In
In the second half both teams stepped up their hunt for a goal. Portugal began coming into the game with Rafael Leão threatening on the wings. But France also continued to be dangerous on counterattacks through Camavinga and Mbappe always lurking around waiting for good chance to score goals. As time wore down though neither side could break the deadlock thus taking us to extra time.
Extra Time: No Breakthrough
During the additional thirty minutes it remained frustrating for either side involved in it for that long as none could make any steps towards scoring a goal which could decide this game or sending it into penalty shoot outs if they fail to do so. Players were visibly tired hence heading towards penalty kicks.
Penalty Shootout: Drama Unfolds
Both sides converted their first kicks of the tie before Portugal’s Joao Felix hit a post with his side’s third kick. On the other hand, France were perfect on penalty kicks and their victory was confirmed by Theo Hernandez who precisely guided his shot straight into the top corner.
End of an Era for Ronaldo
This defeat brings Cristiano Ronaldo’s Euro 2024 campaign to an end, which is believed to be his last European Championship. Having shown emotions after the final whistle blew down, Portuguese idol cannot have any other feeling but disappointed.
France’s Semi-Final Showdown
However, France will now take on Spain in a highly anticipated semi-final clash. The Spanish team had earlier eliminated Germany hosts following another dramatic quarter-final encounter.
The tournament has already witnessed some surprises as well as upsets. There is more drama and excitement to come in the knockout stages as teams vie for Europe’s most prestigious prize. Keep watching for updates and analysis on this exciting tournament.
This is Sportstar’s match report of the first T20 game between India Women and South Africa Women at Chepauk in Chennai on Friday.
In this edition of Sportstar, we present to you the coverage for the South Africa women’s tour of India 2024 edition where the first T20I will be played between Indian women cricket team and South African women cricket team.
India Women: 177 / 4 (20 overs)
South Africa Women: 189 / 4 (20 overs)
South Africa win by 12 runs
To view the full scorecard, visit this link.
Match Report
IND-W vs SA-W First T20I: Brits, Kapp lead South Africa Women to victory
Nonkululeko Mlaba bowled a tight final over that kept Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur in check thus securing a twelve-run triumph for South Africans against Indians at M.A. Chidambaram Stadium on Friday.
Key Moments
SA beats IND by 12 runs
South Africa won by twelve runs leading three-match T20 series one-nil.
IND 177/4 in 20overs
Harmanpreet gets out on last delivery by stumping after hitting a four. She had made thirty five off twenty nine balls.
Jemimah and Harmanpreet fought hard but India fell short by twelve runs.
IND 173/3 in 19overs
49 needed from remaining two overs. Jemimah hit two boundaries and then six as she brought up her fifty with an audacious stroke play.
IND 151/3 in 18overs
47 required from eighteen balls now. Harmanpreet hits de Klerk for a boundary as they take eight runs.
IND 143/3 in 17overs
Tryon bowls out. Jemimah and Harmanpreet each hit boundaries, keeping the chase alive.
IND 131/3 in 16overs
Khaka was able to bowl very tight but still Harmanpreet can find a boundary.
IND 125/3 in 15overs
Marx returns. Jemimah hits three boundaries, but Mlaba’s fielding saves a crucial run.
IND 110/3 in 14overs
Mlaba into the attack. Jemimah scores a boundary off a rare misfield.
IND 103/3 in 13overs
de Klerk returns. Harmanpreet manages a solitary boundary on that tight over bowled by de Klerk.
IND 99/3 in 12 overs
Tryon back into the attack. Jemimah sweeps one for a boundary
IND90/3in11 overs Accordingly Hemalatha is bowled by de Klerk for14(17).Jemima partners with Harmanpreet Sarkar.
IND87/2in10 overs Tryon’s second over.Sudha Mandhana edges one to keeper and she is out at46(30).
IND86/1in9 overs Mlaba’s second over.Ishan Kishen hits a boundary; however catch falls short of the fielder
IND74 /1in8overs Annerie Dercksen bowls.Mandhana hits a four
IND66 /1in7over. Mlaba’s over sees Hemalatha getting another four runs
5 IND61 /1 IN6 OVERS. Khaka into the attack . Shafali Verma is caught behind off Ngidi after18(14)
4 IND54 /0 IN 5 OVERS Marx continues.Mandhana reaches fifty with a boundary and a six
3 IND43 /0 IN 4 OVERS De Klerk’s over sees Mandhana hitting three boundaries.
2 IND28 /0 IN 3 OVERS
Marx into the attack. Mandhana and Verma take ten runs from the over.
1 IND18 /0 IN 2OVERS. Tryon into the attack. Mithali Raj hits two fours.
1 IND8 /0 IN 1OVER. Khaka bowls to Shafali who hits a four.
SA-W innings
SA189/4 in20 overs Vastrakar bowls full length on off stump, Tryon goes for twelve(8), Brits scores eighty one(56) before falling on the last ball.
SA 183/2 in 19 overs
Asha’s over sees six runs.
SA 177/2 in 18 overs
Deepti bowls her last over. Brits hits a four, a six and another four.
SA 159/2 in 17 overs
Radha Yadav bowls. Kapp is caught on the boundary for 57 (33). Tryon hits two consecutive sixes.
SA 145/1 in 16 overs
Vastrakar returns to bowl the next over after drinks. Brits brings up her fifty off just thirty-five balls. Kapp also gets to her half-century.
SA 131/1 in 15 overs
Asha Shobana comes into the attack from the other end. Kapp strikes two boundaries.
SA 118/1 in 14 overs
Deepti returns back into the attack after her first wicket maiden. Four singles come from it.
SA 113/1 in 13 overs
Renuka goes past her run up mark with a strained smile on her face. Kapp ends the over by hitting it for a six and four.
SA101/1in12overs
Radha Yadavcomesaround.South Africa captainDanesjaBritshitsananotherboundary
SA92/1in11overs
AsaShobanadisguising herself as an Indian spinner.Kappsendsitforabeautifulhitforsixandfour
SA78/1in10overs
Deepti Sharma continues.Wherever there’s a ball being dispatched to or struck along these lines, that place is likely to be Brit’s location
Renuka’s fourth delivery is lofted high into the sky by Wolvaardt; it goes over the line! Six and two boundaries!
2-6
SA6/0in2overs
After theseconddelivery,bowlerVastrakaralsohasasingletohisnameafterbeingcapturedbytheskipperandsladoffthebatbyBrits
SA5/0 in 1 over.
First ball, Wonger was hit on its side by a good shot from Wolvaardt.
How to watch IND-W vs SA-W First T20I match live on TV in India?
On the Jio Cinema app and website, you can stream the game live or catch up on it later.
Setting the Scene:
The historical M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai was abuzz as it geared up to host its first Women’s limited-overs bilateral game in 17 years. A pulsating T20I showdown awaited between India and South Africa with both teams looking forward to leaving an impression in the series opener.
Pre-Match Insights
It was a mixture of anticipation and contemplation before this match. For instance, Jemimah Rodrigues, one of India’s middle-order mainstays showed delight about playing at a packed Chepauk. The captain Laura Wolvaardt of South Africa said that it would be an important test for her team before their World Cup T20 competition. Notably, Chloe Tryon who is a dynamic all-around player has been brought back by Proteas following her injury layoff.
Toss and Team Selections
India won the toss and elected to bowl first with hopes of restricting South Africa within manageable limits while chasing their score down later. Both sides had their best elevens on display with India going ahead with the same winning combination from their last ODI win.
South Africa’s Batting Masterclass
South Africa made no bones about setting themselves apart through batting prowess from bat one. Openers Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits did not waste any time but went after bowlers throughout peppering boundaries here and there. Wolvaardt was sent packing by Renuka Singh Thakur giving a break through for Indians though Brits kept up her assault well supported by experienced Marizanne Kapp.
Brits and Kapp’s Spectacular Show
In no time Brits as well as Kapp put together a strong partnership that was bringing runs at a very high rate. Brits struck an amazing half-century while Kapp played alongside her with a composed and graceful fifty. This meant that they were not only hitting but also forcing the Indian bowlers to run around like headless chickens.
A Moment of Adversity
There was a brief halt in the match when Tazmin Brits got injured and had to be removed from the field. The Indian team also suffered a setback when Richa Ghosh suffered concussion and her place was taken by S. Sajana.
South Africa’s Formidable Total
Despite losing few wickets in the late overs, South Africa finished their innings with 189/4 on board. This massive score underlined India’s batting prowess as it consisted of scores 81 by Brits and 57 by Kapp which represented South Africa’s highest total ever against India in t20 international matches.
India’s Chase Begins
India started their chase of this target with calmness due to solid opening stand between Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana. However, the required run rate continued to go high that made life difficult for them as batsmen. South African Ayabonga Khaka sent back Shafali making way for Jemimah Rodrigues.
Rodrigues and Mandhana’s Valiant Stand
But unfortunately South Africa disciplined bowling did not allow Mandhana or Rodrigues to pick up the scoring pace significantly during their respective partnerships. As she got out after making 46 runs off Chloe Tryon’s balls, Mandhana showed us how beautiful batting can be as she went about her business delicately shouldering responsibilities higher up the Indian order.She more than anyone else has battled hard keeping hope against all odds alive make it possible for India to finally win this game after putting it into perspective.The mantle shifted towards Rodrigues who remained unbeaten careful an aggressive unbeaten innings of 41 runs and her captain.
A Thrilling Climax
To boost the scoring rate, Rodrigues and Harmanpreet struck some lovely boundaries and took quick singles. She made 50 of them in style thus showing how maturely she batted today even as the evidence shows that she is not getting carried away by emotions. Nonetheless, the chase was still a steep one such that pressure mounted with every passing ball.
The Triumphant End of South Africa
However, in spite of the spirited fight from Rodrigues and Harmanpreet, India fell agonizingly short by 12 runs. Nonkululeko Mlaba, a left-arm spinner, bowled an important last over that successfully kept Indian batters under control. The outstanding fielding shown by South Africa contributed to their victory.
Kolasib, July 5, 2024: On this day, the MSSC Kawnpui Football Ground was officially inaugurated by Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar, the Minister of Sports and Youth Services. The opening ceremony was held at the MSSC Kawnpui Football Ground with Pu Lalramsanga Sailo, IRS, Secretary Sports and Youth Services in chair. After a prayer by Rev. Zosangliana Fanai, the chief guest unveiled a commemorative plaque.
The minister said he was excited about this new field for sports which he admitted not to be financially motivated. He pointed out that female football development is crucial because it will produce talented women footballers.Kawnpui should foster capable women players in its pursuit of this development dearth; he added. As for the public’s view on sportsthe Minister spoke about how these sports have changed from being an ordinary pastime to competitive activities.He also touched on the importance of hockey as a game that can lead to Olympic participation.
He also stated that there could also be number state level camps and called for proper maintenance and use of the facility.
Pu K Laldawngliana, MLA 4-Tuirial AC shared about how long it took them at Astro Turf Demand Committee who were very instrumental in realizing this project. This has been seen as a effort from all governments both past ones and now according to him.
MLA Pu Jeje Lalpekhlua thanked Hon’ble Minister for coming today and expressed his satisfaction with having such best ground for football.He emphasized on grassroots training and development through good coaches as community shall use field responsibly
At last event Chairman Inaugural MSSC Kawnpui Football Ground Pu Ramsanga Sailo IRS Secretary Sports & Youth announced opening Hockey Academy at Kawnpui.That once again Mizoram government is sincere in working hard to meet Olympic standard.
The technical report was given by Pu John Tanpuia, MCS Secretary of Mizoram State Sports Council and he said construction of ground commenced on 12th January 2023 till 13th June 2024. The project titled “Laying of Artificial Turf at MSSC Kawnpui Football Ground,” was financed under SASCI Scheme with an outlay of six crore rupees. M/S Decor India from Guwahati won the tender for the work.
The football turf measures 105 metres x64 meters while playing area covers100x60 meters. Also a pavilion measuring18x4.5 was constructed with two floors inside it.Additional works: site development, RCC structure slab extension, retaining wall construction, quality PVC-coated chain link fencing and proper drainage systems were also done.
After speeches by the chief guest and others dignitaries, Zotlang Cultural Club from Kawnpui performed traditional dances.Event ended with vote of thanks by Pu C Lalremsanga Joint Director Sports & Youth Services Department
Also present were Deputy Speaker Pu Lalfamkima; MLA Pu K Laldawngliana; MLA Pu Jeje Lalpekhlua; officials from Sports Department; representatives from Mizoram Football Association (MFA); community leaders as well as other distinguished guests who accompanied Hon’ble Minister for Sports and Youth Services.
Tonight, at 12:30 AM IST, football lovers are about to be entertained as Portugal goes head-to-head with France in a high-pressure quarter-final encounter at the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg. Both sides made it through to the last sixteen but their paths have been vastly different. Portugal finished top of their group and went on to win an exciting penalty shoot-out against Slovenia whilst France was second in their group and recorded a slender victory over Belgium by means of an own goal.
Showing Their Star Power
This match is not only a battle between two European football giants but also a contest involving two of the biggest stars in the game; Cristiano Ronaldo from Portugal and Kylian Mbappé from France. The duo will want to lead their nations to victory during this vital clash while simultaneously making statements themselves.
The Tale of The Tape
Although considered as football powerhouses, both Portugal and France have disappointed during the tournament so far. Neither team can score goals easily, thus raising the stakes for this quarterfinal fixture.
Prediction Line Up
In a 4-3-3 formation, Portugal is expected to line up with Costa in goal, Cancelo, Dias, Pepe and Mendes forming the backline and Palhinha, Vitinha and Silva stabilizing the midfield. As for attack Fernandes Leao Ronaldo who are upfront will be responsible for scoring most goals.
France is most likely going for 4-2-3-1 formation where Maignan would be guarding between posts while Kounde Saliba Upamecano Hernandez forms defenders line whereas Kante Tchouameni control midfield position.Dembele,Griezmann,Mbappe will take forward positions where Thuram leads them all.
How To Watch It?
Indian viewers can watch this live match on Sony Ten 2 HD/SD with English commentary. Alternatively, they may choose to stream the game live on Sony LIV.
Both Portugal and France are desperate for a place in the final four and will be going all out to book their places in this match. Will Ronaldo’s experience lead Portugal to triumph or would Mbappé’s youthful exuberance prove decisive for France tonight? Stay tuned to find out!
Gupt Navratri, a period of nine days dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, is a time for spiritual practices and devotion. However, when it comes to this holy season some actions are considered taboo and may also lead to the goddess’ displeasure resulting in life’s unfortunate consequences.
Gupt Navratri 2024 A Time for Spiritual Practices
In Hindu culture, which has four celebrations per year, Navratri has a special significance. Two of these are openly celebrated while two others are celebrated privately as Gupt Navratris. This year Ashadh Gupta Navarari falls on July 6th coinciding with Amrit Siddhi Yoga and Punarvasu Nakshatra that is auspicious.
Forbidden Acts During Gupt Navratri
Cutting Hair and Nails: It is deemed unlucky to get one’s hair or nails cut during Gupatnavratri.
Wearing Black Clothes: Wearing black dresses during the nine-day long festival of Guptnavratra is believed to bring adverse energy against devotees being unsatisfied by Goddess Durga herself.
Using Leather Items: The use of leather items is not allowed in Gupt navarati since it offends godesses which will lead bad luck.
Engaging in Arguments or Conflicts : A pure mind free from dispute must be maintained during Gupatnavrti hence there should no conflict at all so that complete worship can be done unto a godess who requires absoutely full attention.
Sleeping on a Bed : Sleeping on bed discouraged in gupta navarati because it does negative things toward your life as well as stops spiritual journey toward God.
Gupt Navratri, a sacred period dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, is observed four times a year, with two of them being secret or “Gupt” Navratris. Ashadh Gupt Navratri, commencing on July 6th, 2024, is considered particularly significant for tantric practices and the fulfillment of desires related to wealth and property. Observing these traditional prohibitions during Guptnavarat iis important for personal religious practices during Gupatnavratra and seeking the blessings of Devi Durga. Fulfilling and spiritually uplifting experiences can be guaranteed during these holy days if these directives are adhered to by devotees.
A 14-year-old boy in Kozhikode, Kerala died of amoebic meningoencephalitis on Wednesday night, following two other deaths related to Naegleria fowleri within the state over the last two months. On June 24th, he was admitted to a hospital after experiencing severe headache, nausea and vomiting with possible exposure being a stream near his house. What … Read more
Saba Karim, a former India player, has insisted that Sanju Samson’s future in the national team could get determined by the forthcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe. He envisions Samson as a potential fixture in the T20I setup, showcasing his skills both as a batter and a wicketkeeper. Nevertheless, even though he was part of the 2024 World Cup-winning T20 squad of India, Samson did not get to play any match.
The Competition Heats Up
Compared to when Pant was injured, competition has become more stiff with his return to form. However, it cannot be denied that Samson captained Rajasthan Royals in an amazing manner during this year’s edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). His continuous batting and good work behind stumps have made him a strong candidate for being included in playing XI.
The Zimbabwe Series Turning Point
Speaking to Sony Sports about it, Karim anticipates Zimbabwe as what might turn out to be the turning point for Sanju. He suggests that selectors might tryout Samson at number three where he has excelled before. This may present multiple choices for the side and provide useful pointers towards future selection process.
A Multifaceted Talent
This makes him an invaluable asset for his team because he can adjust accordingly depending on which place he is given to bat and also due to his age-long experience. Again worth mentioning is how successful he was leading Rajasthan Royals during IPL. The best moment of Samson’s career so far would occur if he cemented himself as regular member of Indian Twenty-Twenty International (T-20) team after Zimbabwe tour.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
There are numerous challenges and opportunities ahead for him. However, there are certainly several dark horses who might challenge him, particularly Rishabh Pant and other emerging talents. Most importantly, Samson could use the Zimbabwe series to prove his worthiness and become a regular in Indian T20I team.
The upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe is not just another international assignment for Sanju Samson; it’s a defining moment in his career. His ability to seize this opportunity and deliver impactful performances could shape his future in the Indian team and potentially open doors for him in other formats as well.
For a young Venezuelan team on the rise, a surprisingly successful Copa America journey by Canada is now faced with a big hurdle. The latter beat expectations regarding ending up in the group with world cup winners Argentina and will now face different type of opponents.
Canada’s Defense Embraces Venezuela’s Attack
With Jesse Marsch as the new coach, Canada has turned into an institution where defense has been well-established to concede just one goal in the group stages. Moïse Bombito and Derek Cornelius have both been instrumental at centre-back along with Maxime Crépeau who remains outstanding as the goalkeeper throughout this time. However, it should be noted that their front struggles continue to bother them since they have only found the net once so far in this tournament.
On the other hand, Venezuela boasts of a strong attack and solid backline; Salomón Rondón alongside winger Eduard Bello both exuding two goals each during this year’s tourney among other youthful players. In fact, they play fearless attacking football while having rock-solid qualities at their back.
Buchanan’s Absence a Major Setback
Moreover, Tajon Buchanan will miss Canada’s next match after fracturing his tibia in training. Marsch will too have to find another player who can’t get away from him as there are no dynamic replacements for Buchanan’s style of play.
A Clash Of Styles And Ambitions
This quarter final match guarantees an interesting clash of styles and ambitions. It is going to be hard for Canada’s defensive resilience against Venezuela offensive flair. While Canadians seek to go beyond their wildest dreams about this showdown, Venezuelans are hoping to consolidate recent progressions made in South America and reach semi-finals.
Historical Context
Canada has played two times against Venezuela and never defeated her hence drawing all matches together before this current Copa America quarter-final. It will be their first competitive encounter which adds more interest to this tie.
Projected Lineups
Canada is likely to play in a 4-4-2 formation with Johnston, Laryea, Davies and Millar supporting David and Larin as the two attackers. On the other hand, Bello, Savarino and Soteldo will support Rondón upfront while Herrera and Herrera are expected to line up in a position of defensive midfielders with a double pivot. Venezuela is expected to field a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Venezuela presents an entirely different challenge compared to Canada’s previous opponents albeit exceeding expectations so far. The absence of Buchanan and their offensive struggles could prove costly. Perhaps Venezuela’s youthful energy mixed with attacking instincts might be just enough to edge out Canadians at this important stage of the competition.
Tune In!
Be sure not to miss this exciting quarterfinal between Canada and Venezuela at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on June 26th kicking off at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. The match promises entertainment as it is anticipated that it will determine greatly how these teams perform going forward in Copa America championships.
On Thursday, Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance, went to visit Sonia Gandhi at her residence situated in 10 Janpath. During the visit he handed personally an invitation for his son Anant Ambani’s upcoming marriage with Radhika Merchant that is scheduled for July 12th. This news was broken by news agency ANI. Ambanis started their wedding … Read more
