PARIS (AP) Home advantage has counted little for host nations in recent European Championship history.
Since the finals tournament era kicked off in 1980, only France has kept the trophy at home - 32 years ago with Michel Platini in his prime.
France can take some home comfort from this exception ahead of the Euro 2016 semifinals starting Wednesday.
First, Portugal plays Wales in Lyon one day before the French face Germany in Marseille, where captain Platini inspired his team to beat Portugal in a memorable semifinal in 1984.
Still, history teaches us that a semifinal is most often the stumbling stage for home hopes.