Dja Djedje gives France the edge

France enjoyed a dream start to their UEFA European Under-19 Championship Elite round Group 3 opener against Portugal after two early goals from Franck Dja Djedje set Jean Galice's side on track for a 3-2 victory.

Quickfire goals
Portugal were left numbed by Dja Djedje, who headed past Mário Felgueiras six minutes into the match then doubled his tally three minutes later. Portugal's reply came not long before the half-hour when Ricardo Vaz Té reacted quickly to bring António Violante's men back into the game. With their confidence restored, Portugal restored parity when Vieirinha picked himself up to level from the penalty spot after he had been brought down in the area.

French winner
Portugal dominated proceedings from the start of the second half and first Paulo Machado and then Ivanildo were unlucky not to be rewarded for good efforts on goal. They were to rue the missed chances, however, when Moussa Sow hit the winner for France 29 minutes from time. Portugal tried valiantly to get back on level terms but were unable to break through a well-organised and determined French defence. On Thursday, Portugal face their Iberian neighbours Spain, who beat Israel 3-0, in Plasencia, while France take on the Israelis.