“Out of respect, I thought it was not appropriate to celebrate that goal,” says Griezmann

Respectful Antoine Griezmann refused to celebrate his goal that put France into the World Cup semi-finals because he was “supported by a Uruguayan” when he began his professional career.

The Atletico Madrid hitman scored the crucial second goal in the 61st minute to hand France a 2-0 win and a last-four against either Brazil or Belgium, in part thanks to a gaffe from Uruguay keeper Fernando Muslera, who failed to deal with his long-rage strike.

Griezmann stood still as France players celebrated, despite scoring the goal that put his nation into the World Cup semi-final for the first time in 12 years.

“I didn’t celebrate that goal because when I started as a professional footballer I was supported by a Uruguayan, who showed me the good and the bad of football,” said Griezmann.

“Out of respect, I thought it was not appropriate to celebrate that goal.”

In the run-up to the match, Griezmann had spoken about his affinity with Uruguay and his friendship with two Uruguayan players, Jose Gimenez and Diego Godin. The latter is the godfather to Griezmann’s daughter.

Source: Yahoo

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