DEFEAT against Portugal continued Patrice Evra’s miserable run in European finals.
The Frenchman has now played in six continental showpieces for clubs and country and lost FIVE.
And at the age of 35, you wonder whether his last chance for international success has now gone.
As hosts, France were expected to beat Portugal in Paris, but were tactically outfought on the night.
Look away, Pat, as SunSport look through your European final hell.
Champions League final, 2004
Evra and Monaco had completed an unlikely journey to the Champions League final — overcoming the likes of Real Madrid and Chelsea along the way.
The French side had even won 8-3 against Deportivo in the group stage.
But another surprise package — Jose Mourinho’s Porto — awaited in the final.
And the Portuguese giants were too strong — and the Special One’s stardom was born.
Champions League final, 2008
The left-back had moved to Manchester United and become a first-team regular.
Having already beaten Chelsea to the Premier League title on the final day of the season, the Red Devils were looking to overcome their rivals once again in a first-ever all-English final.
And, for once, Evra was successful.
The pair drew 1-1 in Moscow but it was United who held their nerve to triumph 6-5 in the shootout.
Champions League final, 2009
No team had ever retained the Champions League, but United were looking a good bet.
They had seen no departures and strengthened with the club-record signing of Dimitar Berbatov — and had claimed another league title.
However, Pep Guardiola was brewing something special at Barcelona.
The Catalans outclassed United to win 2-0 and complete a Treble, which would see the start of a dynasty not seen in football for decades.
Related Stories
Champions League final, 2011
Two years later and it was a replay.
But, having replaced stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez with Antonio Valencia and Javier Hernandez, United were somewhat weaker.
Goals from Pedro, Lionel Messi and David Villa capped off a dominant performance for Barcelona to cement their place in history.
Evra and Co. went down 3-1 at Wembley.
Champions League final, 2015
Evra was facing his old nemeses once again.
This time, however, the Frenchman was facing Barcelona whilst donning the black and white of Juventus.
Both sides were looking to complete a Treble, having already won the league and cup.
But it was Barca who came out on top in Berlin with goals from Ivan Rakitic, Luis Suarez and Neymar.
Euro 2016 final
Evra had gone from being the leader of a World Cup coup six years ago to the father figure of a young side looking to reign supreme at home.
Finally, France had shown some togetherness.
They celebrated victory over Germany like they had won the tournament.
But they hadn’t banked on Portugal actually turning up — despite losing key man, Ronaldo, early on — and winning in Paris.
Leave a comment