Euro 2016 | France enter final on the back of Griezmann brace

Germany: Neuer, Kimmich, Boateng, Howedes, Hector, Can, Schweinsteiger, Ozil, Kroos, Draxler, Muller.

France started on the offensive on the night, although their corner in the 3rd minute was eventually dealt with by Germany effectively. Griezmann was at the center of everything, and the forward almost managed a goal weaving through the German defence on a one-two with Matuidi. But his right-footed shot towards the right bottom of the goal was blocked by Neuer.

Germany threatened to only increase their dominance as the half progressed. Schweinsteiger, the German skipper, was leading from the front, and in the 23rd minute was rewarded with a free-kick close to the box, but the resultant kick was comfortably stopped by Lloris. Just two minutes later, Lloris was again called into service as he tipped Schweinsteiger's 25-yard curling effort that came dangerously close to the cross-bar.

In the 32nd minute, France's last line was again put to the test by Kimmich's delivery into the box. But Muller once again missed his header, and the ball traveled to Drazler who as well messed up his chance.

Germany were dominating the half – they had 64% possession and twice as many shots as France had managed. With just the final touch missing, it appeared only a matter of time. The German side's lack of an attacker with the requisite speed was glaring – in the 39th minute, Muller received the ball on the right at 40 yards, but his lack of pace resulted in him loosing an innocuous shot at the French goal that was easily saved.

France finally created a chance with Giroud clean through on goal, but the striker's lack of pace left Howedes enough time to track back and make a brilliant challenge right when Giroud was about to take his shot.

Griezmann strikes again

The second half started in a fashion similar to the first – France dominated possession early on before Germany caught up and pushed them back into their half. France were in fact content to give up possession after the initial part and just attack on the counter. Ozil and Kroos were finding the passes, but the finish was still lacking as France packed bodies in the final third and clogged Ozil's passing lanes.

Germany persevere without success

Finally, France were through with a wonderful display of counter-attacking to win 2-0. The hosts will now play the final at home against Portugal on Sunday.