Barcola and Kolo Muani's brave efforts were not enough against Spain

After a two day break, Euro 2024 commenced again with the beginning of the semi-finals. The first encounter was an enthralling one with Spain toppling France 2-1.

La Roja will go into the final clear favorites to win against either Holland/England as they are the side that have played the best football.

Barcola and Kolo Muani shine while Dembele disappoints

There were a handful of PSG players on the field when France and Spain played each other in Munich on Tuesday night. Fabian Ruiz (Spain) and Kolo Muani, Barcola, and Dembele (all France) performed to a high level.

Kolo Muani headed home Mbappe's cross in the eighth minute to register France's first goal in open play this tournament. Moments later Yamal scored a wonder strike and Kounde diverted Olmo's shot into his own goal to give Spain a 2-1 lead going into halftime. When Barcola came in the second half his directness made a huge difference.

The winger had completed around five out of his six take-on which begs the question of why didn't Deschamps start him from the beginning. His nutmeg on Rodri was pleasing to the eye. Dembele had a night that will not live long in his memory. The PSG winger was dispossessed 21 times and struggled with his end product in the final third.

READ MORE: PSG's bold midfield swap, Ugarte out, Neves in

Ruiz's stock will increase after this tournament

Before today's game, Ruiz had two goals and two assists in three games which is a testament to the leaps and bounds he has come on as a player. He held his own against France's robust midfield and should have scored his close header earlier on. His performance should not come as a surprise as he and Rodri complement each other so well in the middle of the park.