In what has come as a major development, France’s star striker Kylian Mbappe is set to miss the remaining group stage matches of Euro 2024 due to a broken nose. The injury occurred in the second half of France’s opening Group D game against Austria, where Les Blues recorded a narrow 1-0 victory.
What actually happened with Mbappe?
After forcing an own goal to give a lead to his team, the French captain collided with an Austrian defender late in the match. Mbappe’s nose smashed into Kevin Danso’s shoulder, suffering a blow that left him bloodied and forced him off the field. Though France secured the win, concerns immediately turned to Mbappe’s health and his availability for the rest of the group stage.
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A big blow for France in their Euros hunt!
Initial reports suggested a serious facial injury, but thankfully, surgery won’t be necessary. However, Mbappe will need to wear a protective mask to shield his broken nose, effectively ruling him out of the upcoming matches against Netherlands and Poland.
This is a significant setback for France. Mbappe is their most potent attacking threat, and his absence will be a major test for coach Didier Deschamps. The remaining strikers will need to step up in Mbappe’s absence if France wants to secure qualification for the knockout stages. The 2022 FIFA World Cup runners-up are in quite a difficult group, with the Dutch and Polish team waiting in the wings. It was important for Mbappe and Co. to get those three crucial points and a solid Austrian unit.