France have qualified for the Nations League finals after narrowly winning 1-0 in Portugal to secure top spot in Group A3.
Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante struck early in the second half to secure the win for Les Bleus, as Portugal failed to capitalise on their late dominance.
Portugal came into the fixture having beaten Andorra 7-0 last time out, whereas the visitors were stunned by an impressive Finland team as they lost 2-0 at home.
Didier Deschamps’ French side were quick out of the blocks and had an early effort when the lively Kingsley Coman skipped round his marker, only to sting the palms of Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio.
France’s momentum continued to build and they nearly broke the deadlock when Anthony Martial squandered the best chance of the first half when his header rattled the crossbar from six yards out.
The hosts were struggling to contain the array of attacking talent on show from their opponents, as chances began to flow regularly.
Just before the break, Lucas Hernandez played a teasing cross into the box which was met by the onrushing Martial – only for his effort to be stopped once again by the outstretched Patricio.
At the start of the second half, the theme of French domination continued, however this time they displayed their cutting edge as Kante put them ahead.
Antoine Griezmann and Adrien Rabiot combined on the edge of the area with a neat one-two, gifting the latter an opportunity to hit a fierce shot towards the far post. Rabiot’s effort was parried into the path of Kante who was able to finish into an empty net.
With just over 30 minutes to go, Portugal started to find their feet in the game and created their best chance, when Bernardo Silva’s cross was headed onto the post from Jose Fonte.
Moments later, another chance came their way when Cristiano Ronaldo showcased his footwork to create space before cutting the ball back for Joao Moutinho. The Wolves midfielder struck a first-time shot from the edge of the box but France goalkeeper was equal to it with a good save.
As the game approached the last 10 minutes Portugal were desperate not to hear the final whistle, as they looked to make their pressure count.
Joao Cancelo must have thought he had rescued a point for his side when his whipped cross was attacked by three players in the box but no-one was able to make contact.
It wasn’t to be though for Portugal, who can no longer defend their title – with the finals taking place in October next year.
By James Humphreys
