As part of LastWordOnSports’ Euro 2016 coverage, we are tracking Arsenal players’ performances in France. After Wojciech Szczesny’s Poland was eliminated in the quarter-finals, the remaining Arsenal players at the Euros were:
- France: Oliver Giroud, Laurent Koscielny
- Wales: Aaron Ramsey
- Germany: Mesut Özil
Arsenal at Euro 2016: Giroud and Koscielny Are Through
Ramsey Watches From Bench As Wales Bow Out
Suspended Aaron Ramsey looked on with disappointment as Wales lost 2-0 loss to Portugal. After a cagey first half in Lyon, Cristiano Ronaldo leaped like a salmon to fire home a magnificent header in the 50th minute before former Manchester United winger Nani struck three minutes later to double Portugal’s lead. Wales failed to find a way back into the game and failed to fill the Aaron Ramsey-shaped hole in their midfield. Wales exit the tournament disappointed but welcomed back home by thousands of Welsh supporters. After his energetic and authoritative performances in France, Aaron Ramsey is likely to be included in the team of the tournament.
Giroud and Koscielny Console A Heartbroken Özil
Friendships turned into rivalries for 90 minutes as Oliver Giroud and Laurent Koscielny’s France beat Mesut Özil’s Germany 2-0. In an highly anticipated fixture, Antoine Griezmann’s double decided the Arsenal civil war with Koscielny, Özil and Giroud all featuring. France took the lead after Bastian Schweinsteiger’s handball in the penalty area with Griezmann converting the resulting penalty. Germany pressed throughout the second half for an equaliser but disastrous German defending and goalkeeping allowed Griezmann to seal a historic win.
Giroud had a productive performance over 78 minutes despite wasting an excellent chance after Benedikt Howedes blocked his low strike in the first half. Meanwhile, his international team mate Koscielny put in another commanding defensive performance: he made 11 clearances, 2 interceptions and blocks and kept an important clean sheet. Özil looked inspired in Marseille after he controlled the German play, completed 90% of his passes and had two shots in 90 minutes. Amongst the French celebrations, Giroud and Koscielny consoled a dejected and disappointed Özil at the full time whistle.
