Kylian Mbappé’s return to the starting lineup for France at Euro 2024 after suffering a broken nose was marked with challenges. Coach Didier Deschamps highlighted the difficulties Mbappé faced while wearing a mask to protect his injury. Deschamps pointed out that the mask limited Mbappé’s peripheral vision, making it harder for him to see clearly during the game.
Despite the challenges posed by wearing the mask, Mbappé managed to score a second-half penalty during the match against Poland. Deschamps acknowledged that Mbappé had to deal with the discomfort caused by the mask, especially when sweat would drip into his eyes, forcing him to frequently wipe them. However, Deschamps praised Mbappé’s determination to continue playing and his overall performance on the field.
Deschamps deployed Mbappé as a central striker initially and later shifted him to the left wing during the game. Mbappé’s versatility and hunger to play were evident as he showcased his skills in both positions. Deschamps emphasized that the match offered valuable playing time for Mbappé and would benefit him in upcoming games for the team.
Despite Mbappé’s goal in the match against Poland, France struggled to secure a victory, ultimately settling for a 1-1 draw. The result placed France as runners-up to Austria in Group D, leading to a challenging path in the tournament draw. France’s inability to score open-play goals throughout Euro 2024 raised concerns about their performance and effectiveness in front of the goal.
Deschamps acknowledged the need for France to improve their goal-scoring abilities and clinical finishing in matches. While expressing optimism about the team’s capabilities, Deschamps emphasized the importance of converting chances into goals to enhance their performance. Despite the challenges faced by France in the tournament so far, Deschamps remained positive and hopeful for a resurgence in their scoring form.
Kylian Mbappé’s performance at Euro 2024 highlighted the resilience and determination of the French team in the face of adversities. While facing challenges such as wearing a protective mask and struggling to score goals, Mbappé and the team remained focused on improving their performance and achieving success in the tournament. With a positive outlook and a commitment to refining their tactics, France aims to overcome obstacles and showcase their true potential on the field.