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E-mail Xinhua, June 18, 2024
Despite starting their Euro 2024 group stage campaign with a win, Didier Deschamps and his French team were overshadowed by concern as their star player, Kylian Mbappe, left the match injured, potentially affecting his participation in upcoming games.
Kylian Mbappe of France shoots during the UEFA Euro 2024 Group D match between Austria and France in Dusseldorf, Germany, on June 17, 2024. (Xinhua/Pan Yulong)
France secured a 1-0 victory over Austria in their Group D opener on Monday as Mbappe's cross in the first half led to an own goal by Austrian defender Maximilian Wober, which turned out to be the winning goal of the match.
The newly-signed Real Madrid striker collided violently with Austrian defender Kevin Danso while contesting a header in the second half. Television footage showed visible deformation of his nose, and his jersey was stained with blood.
Deschamps told reporters in the post-match interview that Mbappe's nose was severely injured, labeling it a "very unfavorable" situation for the team.
According to follow-up reports from French media, Mbappe did not undergo surgery on his nose that night. However, reports diverge on his availability for the next matches. Some outlets suggested he will miss the remaining two group stage matches and return for the knockout stages, while others reported he is confirmed to miss the next game against the Netherlands, with his status for the final group game against Poland still uncertain.
Offering some reassurance to fans, Mbappe took to social media to joke about his injury, writing, "Any thoughts on masks?" implying that he might play with a protective mask if necessary.
Contrary to his stellar performances in the World Cup, the French captain's record in the European Championship has been less impressive. He failed to score any goals in the last edition in 2021, and France was knocked out by Switzerland in a penalty shootout during the round of 16, with Mbappe missing the decisive penalty, making him a target of criticism from French fans.
The Blues will face the Netherlands in their second group stage match on June 21.
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