Austria 0-1 France: Bloodied Kylian Mbappe Exits with Broken Nose as Les Bleus Secure Narrow Victory at Euro 2024
France kicked off their European Championship campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Austria, a match that saw star player Kylian Mbappe leave the field with a bloodied, broken nose. Les Bleus dominated the pace from the onset, though opportunities were limited. Mbappe’s early effort, a low shot aimed at the near post, was parried out for a corner.
Ralf Rangnick’s Austrian side offered little offensively. Their only significant chance came when Christoph Baumgartner’s close-range effort was thwarted by French goalkeeper Mike Maignan. Just two minutes later, France broke the deadlock. An attempted clearance by Austria’s Maximilian Wober inadvertently redirected Mbappe’s cross into his own net.
Mbappe, the primary attacking threat for France, shockingly missed a clear opportunity when he shot wide after a one-on-one situation in the second half. This would be his last significant contribution, as he was later substituted due to a facial injury. Despite Austria’s solid defense, they failed to generate enough offensive pressure, resulting in a disappointing start to their campaign.
Key Discussion: Mbappe’s Injury Concerns for France
France, two-time European champions, entered the tournament as favorites, and their performance against Austria showed that they have more to offer. However, their aspirations heavily rely on Mbappe. His late-game withdrawal due to a potential broken nose, sustained after colliding with Kevin Danso’s shoulder, is concerning for coach Didier Deschamps. Blood streaming from the captain’s face necessitated considerable medical attention before he was taken off. France will be anxiously hoping that this injury doesn’t sideline him for long.
Standout Performer: Theo Hernandez (France)
Outshining even the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann, and Ousmane Dembele, Theo Hernandez was the star of the match in Dusseldorf. From a defensive perspective, Hernandez was rarely challenged, but it was his offensive contributions that truly made a difference. Austria struggled to contain him as he continually advanced, creating numerous chances. His exceptional crosses, in particular, repeatedly put the Austrian defense under pressure, though his efforts went unconverted.
**Austria:**
– Pentz 7
– Posch 6
– Danso 7
– Wober 6
– Mwene 7
– Laimer 7
– Seiwald 6
– Sabitzer 6
– Grillitsch 5
– Baumgartner 7
– Gregoritsch 6
*Subs:*
– Wimmer 7
– Arnautovic 6
– Trauner 6
– Prass n/a
– Schmid n/a
**France:**
– Maignan 6
– Kounde 7
– Saliba 7
– Upamecano 7
– Theo Hernandez 8
– Dembele 6
– Kante 8
– Griezmann 6
– Rabiot 6
– Thuram 6
– Mbappe 7
*Subs:*
– Kolo Muani 6
– Camavinga 6
– Giroud n/a
– Fofana n/a
**36′ Baumgartner’s Near Miss:** Austria’s best chance came from an impressive sequence. An out-swinging cross from Michael Gregoritsch was nodded down by Marcel Sabitzer to Christoph Baumgartner, who failed to convert from close range, with Maignan making a crucial save.
**38′ Goal (Wober Own Goal):** France took the lead when Mbappe, with a burst of speed, delivered a cross that Wober unintentionally deflected into his own net. This own goal put France ahead 1-0.
**55′ Mbappe Misses:** Mbappe, known for his precision, surprisingly missed a clear opportunity, shooting wide after a solo run. This miss was a rare sight and a significant let-off for Austria.
**88′ Mbappe’s Injury:** Late in the game, Mbappe was struck in the face by Danso’s shoulder, leading to profuse bleeding. The incident required substantial medical attention, and Mbappe was eventually substituted, raising concerns about his availability for upcoming matches.
France’s victory over Austria, though not comprehensive, showcased their potential. However, the injury to their key player Mbappe casts a shadow over their prospects, highlighting the importance of his presence for their championship ambitions.