Euro U19: France edge towards semi-finals with win over Denmark
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For their second match of the Euro U19, France's U19s secured a crucial victory against Denmark (4-2). Les Bleuets dominated the match, but would let a four-goal lead slip slightly late into the game. If Spain win against Turkey later this evening, the young French team will qualify for the semi-final stage of the tournament.
Les Bleuets were victorious over Turkey (2-1) in their first match, and now had the opportunity to move closer to the semifinals with a win against Denmark. Bernard Diomède's side started strongly, with Mayssam Benama trying his luck as early as the 4th minute with a long-range strike which was saved by Danish goalkeeper Aske Andresen. France continued to push, with PSG's Senny Mayulu missing a chance on a corner kick.
Persistence finally paid off in the 19th minute. After a one-two between Steve Ngoura and Lyon defender Saël Kumbedi, Kumbedi crossed for Jean-Mattéo Bahoya, who finished into an open net from close range. It was the Frankfurt man's first goal for Les Bleuets. Le Havre striker Ngoura, who was an omnipresent threat, then had an opportunity to increase the score, but Andresen again intervened.
Substitutes decisive for France
Saint-Étienne man Ayman Aiki, who came on in the 57th minute, took advantage of a poor clearance by Andresen to double France's (65'). The substitutes continued to be decisive, with AS Monaco man Saimon Bouabré and Nantes' Dehmaine Assoumani scoring the third and fourth French goals to add some distance in the clash.
Despite their dominance, Les Bleuets would concede two goals late on. Cornelius Olsson reduced the deficit in the 87th minute, followed by a second goal from Simmelhack in stoppage time (90+2'). These goals slightly tarnished the victory but did not prevent the French team from securing the three points.
With a clear victory, the French U19 team are well-positioned to reach the semifinals in Ireland. A win for Spain against Turkey would guarantee their qualification tonight. Otherwise, Les Bleuets will have to play for their qualification on the final day against La Roja.
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