Roy Keane was unimpressed by the display of Joao Felxi following Portugal’s round of 16 exit from the Euros. Belgium went ahead courtesy of Thorgan Hazard’s lovely strike from range. Despite Portugal’s dominance in the possession and shots department in the second half, they could not find the equaliser.
In the post-match show on ITV, Roy Keane criticised Joao Felix for his wasteful performance in the second half. Felix came on as a substitute for Joao Moutinho in the 55th minute and his cameo didn’t impress the former Manchester United captain.
“I get really annoyed with it, particularly when they’re quality players. There’s no excuse for it, seeing players leaning back and just missing the target, at least test the goalkeeper, these are top players no getting away from that.
“Felix, when he came on, that guy’s an imposter, he’s an imposter. He comes on, your country needs you…hit the target! What was he? £100 million? If I was [Cristiano] Ronaldo I’d certainly be going after him in the dressing room. Shocking.
“Felix and Fernandes were driving me crazy. They’ve no one to blame but themselves, they fought like champions to be fair, but Portugal just short.”
Roy Keane was not surprised that Bruno Fernandes was left out of the starting line-up. Despite a great season with Manchester United, Bruno Fernandes had a poor Euro campaign and didn’t even start in Portugal’s last 2 matches. While him being left out may have shocked a few fans, Keane saw it coming.
“No, [I’m] not really [surprised] because of the other options. He’s not really been in top form in the tournament. His body language is not great and he’s not performed”, said the former Irish midfielder.
Belgium will now face Italy in the round of 16. Both the sides have won all 4 of their matches so far and will be vying a spot in the semi-finals of the prestigious continental tournament. The match takes place on July 2nd at the Allianz Arena.