France superstar Kylian Mbappé suffered a broken nose in Les Bleus' 1-0 victory over Austria in their Euro 2024 opener, casting doubt over his participation in the team's upcoming group stage matches. While surgery has been ruled out, Mbappé's availability for the clashes against the Netherlands and Poland remains unknown.
Kylian Mbappé's Euro 2024 campaign has been dealt a setback after the France captain suffered a broken nose in his team's opening match against Austria. The injury occurred late in the game when Mbappé's face collided with the shoulder of Austria's Kevin Danso, leaving the forward bloodied and in evident pain.
Mbappé Suffers Broken Nose, Future Role in Euros Uncertain
Despite receiving medical attention, Mbappé's nosebleeding continued, prompting him to briefly exit the pitch. However, he quickly returned, only to fall to the ground clutching his face and eliciting jeers from Austria's supporters. Mbappé was subsequently booked for unauthorized re-entry before being replaced by Olivier Giroud.
The injury marks a significant blow to France's Euro 2024 hopes, with Mbappé serving as the team's captain in his first major international tournament. His departure from the match also marked the first time a France captain was substituted in European Championship history.
Prior to his injury, Mbappé played a pivotal role in France's victory over Austria. He was involved in the first-half goal, which came off an own goal by Maximilian Wober from a Mbappé cross in the 37th minute. Mbappé also missed a golden opportunity against goalkeeper Patrick Pentz in the 57th minute that could have given him his first Euro goal.
However, it is now uncertain what role Mbappé will play in France's remaining group stage matches. Coach Didier Deschamps has not provided an update on Mbappé's availability, but the forward is expected to undergo further evaluation to determine the extent of his injury.
France will face the Netherlands in their next Group D match on Friday, with coverage beginning at 3 p.m. ET on FOX. The Netherlands are one of the tournament favorites, and France will need Mbappé at his best if they are to secure a positive result.
Mbappé's absence would be a major setback for France, who are aiming to retain their European Championship title. The forward has been in excellent form for both club and country in the lead-up to Euro 2024 and is considered one of the most dangerous players in the world.
The tournament organizers will be hoping that Mbappé recovers in time to play a full part in the remaining matches, as his presence would significantly enhance the spectacle and excitement of Euro 2024.
