Despite snatching a dramatic draw against already-qualified France, Iceland’s Euro 2022 campaign came to an end as Belgium won the other group match to take second place in Group D.
In the 12th minute of stoppage time, Dagny Brynjarsdottir scored from the penalty spot after the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) called a foul within the penalty area.
However, Belgium’s 1-0 victory over Italy meant that it was insignificant because Iceland placed third, one point behind Belgium.
Melvine Malard’s goal from Clara Mateo’s assist gave a significantly altered France team, who had already won their previous two group games to secure first place, the lead after just 46 seconds.
That score was still enough for Iceland to advance if the second game ended scoreless, but that optimism was dashed when Tine de Caigny scored the winning goal for Belgium against Italy.
Sveindis Jonsdottir’s header from a corner indicated Iceland had responded well to falling behind despite playing in temperatures of up to 36 degrees Celsius in Rotherham.
However, France demonstrated their talent, and Sandy Baltimore was twice prevented from extending their advantage.
In the second half, VAR also overturned strikes from Malard and Grace Geyoro.
