In a closely contested Group D match at Euro 2024, France and the Netherlands played out a cautious 0-0 draw, marking the first goalless match of the tournament. The result, although lacking in goals, leaves both teams well positioned for a spot in the knockout stage, while Poland became the first team to face elimination.
France, missing captain Kylian Mbappe due to a broken nose suffered in their opener, and the Netherlands engaged in a match that never quite ignited into a spectacle. Xavi Simons of the Netherlands thought he had broken the deadlock in the second half, only for VAR to disallow the goal due to offside.
With four points each from their opening two games, both France and the Netherlands are likely to advance to the round of 16. France will face Poland next, who are yet to secure a point after a 3-1 defeat to Austria earlier in the day. Meanwhile, the Netherlands will take on Austria, who have three points.
The absence of Mbappe dominated the pre-match narrative, with speculation rife until the last moment about his potential inclusion. Despite a lively first half, neither team managed to capitalize on their chances, with France’s Antoine Griezmann coming closest but failing to convert key opportunities.
As the tournament progresses, both teams will look to build on their solid start and secure passage to the knockout stages.
