(Football news) A thrilling penalty shootout victory over Portugal sent France to the semifinals. The match featured an inspiring captaincy from Kylian Mbappe, who was substituted out of the game before the end of extra time.

Since suffering a nasal injury against Austria, Mbappe has been a shell of his former self, as wearing a protective mask has evidently restricted him even more. He was already hindered by a disjointed conclusion to his tenure with Paris Saint-Germain.

The Real Madrid striker is expected to play up front once more despite suffering another facial injury against Portugal. Marcus Thuram, Randal Kolo Muani, and Ousmane Dembele are all expected to be in their captain’s supporting group.

Also below his best this summer, Spain-based star Antoine Griezmann should still play a part in the final third, and a 17th European Championship appearance would take him past Lilian Thuram – dad of Marcus – as France’s record-holder for games at the continental finals.

Unlike Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, who will have two key men suspended on Tuesday, France boss Didier Deschamps has no such concerns and can even welcome back Adrien Rabiot from a one-match ban.

Eduardo Camavinga may therefore make way, while Aurelien Tchouameni and N’Golo Kante appear to have made themselves untouchable starters in midfield.

A settled back four, helmed by Arsenal’s William Saliba, is very unlikely to change, and Les Bleus’ number one is certainly undisputed.

AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan made some important saves in the quarter-final and is very much in contention for UEFA’s team of the tournament, though no ‘Golden Glove’ award currently exists at the Euros.

France possible starting lineup: Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernandez; Kante, Tchouameni, Rabiot; Griezmann; Kolo Muani, Mbappe

Also read: Spain will play France in the semifinals and here’s the predicted 11