France Defeats Austria 1-0 as Bloodied Mbappe Exits Euro 2024 Match

France secured a milestone 100th victory for coach Didier Deschamps by defeating a determined and well-organized Austrian team 1-0 in their opening Group D match at Euro 2024.

However, the triumph was marred by a concerning injury to their star player, Kylian Mbappe, on Monday.

The match wasn’t a standout performance from France, as they relied on an own goal by Austrian defender Max Wöber shortly before halftime to clinch the three points. Despite this, three years after their disappointing exit in the round of 16 at Euro 2020, France demonstrated enough potential to suggest they could advance much further in this tournament.

The night was bittersweet for captain Mbappe, who left the field bloodied in the final minutes with a suspected broken nose, still in search of his first European Championship goal. Deschamps commented, “His nose is not good at all. It’s the big negative point for us tonight.”

In his 80th appearance for Les Bleus, the 25-year-old showcased his skill, breaking through Austria’s defense in the 38th minute. His dribble past three defenders led to Wöber’s unfortunate own goal. However, Mbappe missed a crucial opportunity to extend the lead in the 54th minute, shooting wide after a solo run.

Deschamps expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, acknowledging missed chances but praising their solidity. “It was not perfect, but we were solid.

We could have been more efficient offensively, but it’s good to start with a win. There’s quality and talent, but being solid and working together is also important. We’re not going to be overconfident, but it’s a good start.”

Kylian Mbappe of France suffers an injury in the UEFA European Championship group game against Austria in Duesseldorf, Germany, June 17, 2024. /CFP

Kylian Mbappe ended up bloodied and bruised after a late-game collision, earning a yellow card for sitting on the pitch shortly after receiving medical treatment. He was eventually substituted in a chaotic finish, raising concerns about the severity of his injury.

Austria’s coach, Ralf Rangnick, had promised his in-form team, with just one loss in their last 16 matches, would challenge France. True to his word, Austria’s relentless high-pressing and tackling kept them competitive throughout the match.

Austria nearly took the lead before France scored when captain Marcel Sabitzer set up Christoph Baumgartner, whose shot was deflected wide by keeper Mike Maignan. France became more dynamic after halftime, with Marcus Thuram forcing a good save from Pentz. However, Austria’s determination remained unwavering, and their fans cheered them on until the final whistle.

Despite their efforts, Austria struggled to create clear chances, largely due to N’Golo Kante’s masterful midfield performance, justifying his return to the squad. “It starts well. Everything was not perfect, but we have the result we wanted,” Kante said. “There are solid foundations, we have to be more efficient. It makes me happy to be back.”

France now shares the top of Group D with the Netherlands, who they face next, after the Dutch team’s 2-1 victory over Poland on Sunday.

Source: news.cgtn.com

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