France have picked up a narrow win against Portugal in the Nations League.
France have edged out Portugal 1-0 in Nations League, with N’Golo Kante’s second-half turning out to be decisive.
The first-half see both the teams had their fair share of chances as Cristiano Ronaldo tested Hugo Lloris from a long-range in the opening minutes and soon the French winger Kingsley Coman did the same against Rui Patricio.
Anthony Martial had a rather unlucky half as he got denied not once but thrice. The first chance could have required a more precise finishing after being out picked by Antoine Griezmann, but Patricio made a good sweeping save. The second one was a misfortune as his header hit the post after reacting quickly to Rabiot’s ball. The Manchester United striker later failed to slot the ball into nets after the cross from Lucas Hernandez, while Patricio equally made a fine save.
Didier Deschamps’ men had their breakthrough soon after the second commenced as Kante found the scoresheet. Rabiot tested Patricio again but Kante was there to score on the rebound.
France could have extended the lead after another pinpoint cross from Rabiot, but Paul Pogba failed to make the most of it.
Portugal was close to getting their equaliser when Joao Moutinho’s long-range hit forced a fantastic save from French skipper Lloris.
The win has taken Le Bleu to the top of Group 3 table from League A. Portugal are trailing them by 10 points.
Furthermore, France have booked their place in Nations League semi-finals while handing Portugal their first home defeat after a long time.
