Antoine Griezmann took up the mantle as challenger-in-chief to Cristiano Ronaldo with two goals that crushed world champions Germany and saw France advance to Sunday’s Euro 2016 final against Portugal.
France’s first victory over their rivals in a major tournament since 1958 came out of a controversial penalty decision at the end of the first half.
Italian referee Nicola Rizzoli awarded France a penalty after German captain Bastian Schweinsteiger handled the ball in an aerial challenge with Patrice Evra. German players were furious but Griezmann sent goalkeeper Manuel Neuer the wrong way with his spot kick.
The match was a conundrum of controversies and the exhilaration of the win for the French and disappointment over Germany’s loss led to numerous twitter reactions.
Antoine Griezmann’s talents on field led France to victory but he also became the main victim of funny tweets
{{/usCountry}}Antoine Griezmann’s talents on field led France to victory but he also became the main victim of funny tweets
{{/usCountry}}Germany couldn’t escape the loss on field and of it as twitter erupted with more tweets showing the giants under pressure.
France’s Giroud was the butt of jokes with his slow pace and weary approach during the game with most of twitterati cringing at his dismal display.
France beating Germany in the semifinal itself elicited surprise and an uncanny joy.