Some of the worst games have come from sides who would have qualified regardless of the expansion: Northern Ireland, England, Austria, Portugal etc.

No such thing as a fit Diaby.

I stand corrected.

Sorry it was, I misread it as you meaning the whole ball needs to be inside.

Thanks. I can see why that was short lived. Quite ridiculous.

i'm finding this a mammoth task to stay awake...

Indeed, it was actually the Republic who were the beneficiaries of the expanded tournament

Seems to be fated for Portugal to win this on penalties

Ronaldo out encouraging his team mates. Because he wants France to win.

What a stupid rule

No wonder they got rid of it

What next

The Platinum goal

When somebody scores a penalty and then the match finishes

Republic and Scotland were one of the key movers of the expansion

Aren't you saying that solely because the expansion favoured both Irelands?

True, it has given them and Iceland and Wales the opportunity of taking part in a major tournament and impressively acquitting themselves - but it completely killed the group stage because teams just tried to defend to get the few points they needed to go through.

Plus it gave us all the rigmarole of deciding the best third placed teams and working out who they would play in the second round.

Clattenburg blows the whistle as soon as possible.

He's probably had enough too.

BBC: "Griezmann looks tired"

Urm, yeah, this is his 70th game this season.

When was that rule in any major tournament?

They shouldn't have this team talk thing during et at h/t. Just turn around and get on with it.

Ronaldo is fuming his team mates aren't passing to him on the bench

He's playing a holding role though ..

This game is an actual crime.

Ronaldo would have scored tonight if was not injured

he's been attacked by a moth

Moutinho is a disgrace.

Well done Clattenburg for not falling for that ridiculous feigning from Joao Moutinho.

Wow that Portugal player has a sensitive head.

Actors!