The 2025 UEFA European Under-21 Championship kicked off in style as Group C titans Portugal and France locked horns in a tense 0-0 draw on matchday one. The clash, held in Trenčín, Slovakia, saw two footballing powerhouses display tactical discipline, flair, and moments of drama, despite the absence of goals.
This was their first U21 meeting since 2011, and while neither side found the net, the intensity and quality on show set the tone for what promises to be an electrifying tournament.
🔍 Match Recap: A Tactical Battle
🔴 Portugal Start Bright
Under the guidance of Rui Jorge, Portugal began on the front foot. Winger Roger Fernandes caused early panic with a blocked shot, while Tiago Tomás tested French keeper Guillaume Restes with a sharp effort from the edge of the area.
However, their brightest moment came when Fernandes squandered a golden opportunity, skying his close-range effort—a miss that could prove costly later in the group stage.
🔵 France Responds in Style
Despite a slower start, France, unbeaten in their pre-tournament friendlies—including a thrilling 5-3 win over England—showcased their pedigree as the first half wore on. A controversial moment came when Matthis Abline was brought down by Rafael Rodrigues, but VAR rightly ruled the foul to have occurred just outside the area.
In the second half, Gérald Baticle’s men turned up the heat. Sildillia, Doukouré, Tel, and Thierno Barry all threatened, but Portuguese keeper Samuel Soares remained defiant with a string of fine saves to keep the game level.
🧤 Soares vs Restes: Goalkeepers Steal the Show
In a match filled with attacking talent—Mathys Tel, Paulo Bernardo, Fernandes—it was the goalkeepers who took center stage. Soares’ confident presence frustrated the French frontline, while Restes handled Portugal’s late efforts with calm authority.
Both teams earned a valuable point, setting up thrilling fixtures to come against Poland and Georgia.
🏆 Group C Outlook
| Team | Played | Points |
| Portugal | 1 | 1 |
| France | 1 | 1 |
| Poland | 0 | 0 |
| Georgia | 0 | 0 |
Group C remains wide open, and with top-two spots up for grabs, every point matters. Expect fireworks in the next round!
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