In their opening game of Euro 2024, France secured a narrow 1-0 win against Austria, with Maximilian Woeber’s own goal proving to be the decisive moment. However, the victory was marred by an injury to French star Kylian Mbappe, who sustained a broken nose during the match.
The game, held in Duesseldorf, saw Woeber inadvertently redirect Mbappe’s cutback into his own net just before half-time, giving France an early lead in their campaign. Despite Austria’s resilient performance under coach Ralf Rangnick, the 2022 World Cup runners-up managed to hold on to their lead.
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Following the match, the French Federation issued a statement confirming Mbappe’s injury. The statement outlined that Mbappe would return to the team’s base camp after suffering a broken nose during the second half of the game. Although he will not undergo immediate surgery, Mbappe will receive treatment in the coming days and will be fitted with a protective mask to aid his recovery.
Mbappe’s injury occurred towards the end of the match in a collision with Kevin Danso. Despite his discomfort, Mbappe had earlier missed a chance to extend France’s lead. France coach Didier Deschamps expressed concern for Mbappe’s condition, acknowledging the severity of the injury but refraining from confirming its extent.
Deschamps also reflected on the team’s performance, acknowledging missed opportunities but emphasizing the importance of starting the tournament with a victory. Despite the setback, France will be relieved to have secured three points in a match overshadowed by Mbappe’s injury and pre-tournament political discussions.
The incident underscores the physical nature of football and serves as a reminder of the challenges teams face in navigating the Euro 2024 tournament.
