France recently went head to head against the Netherlands, facing the absence of star forward Kylian Mbappe due to a broken nose. This sparked curiosity among fans about how Les Bleus would perform without their key player, and the game did not disappoint.
The manager of France, Didier Deschamps, appeared unfazed by the team’s inability to score in Mbappe’s absence. He emphasized that every game brings unique challenges and opportunities, and that efficiency at a high level is an area that can always be improved upon.
The absence of Mbappe was keenly felt, as France had not won any of their last seven games over the past two years when the striker was not in the starting line-up. This trend was particularly evident in their latest match, as France struggled to break through and ultimately ended with a goalless draw.
Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman acknowledged the significant impact of Mbappe’s absence, recognizing that facing France without the talented forward made a noticeable difference for both teams. Despite these challenges, Deschamps emphasized the importance of considering the bigger picture and prioritizing Mbappe’s well-being over taking unnecessary risks, especially given the proximity to his recent injury.
With Mbappe on the bench, Antoine Griezmann had the opportunity to take on a more prominent role. However, he failed to capitalize on this chance, with several missed opportunities impacting his performance. Despite the concerning finishing, Deschamps remains optimistic about Griezmann’s contributions to the team and sees potential for his versatility in different positions on the field.
Despite the struggles up front, N’Golo Kante’s exceptional performance provided a bright spot for France. His return to international football has been impressive, with Deschamps highlighting Kante’s ability to propel the team forward and add variety to their gameplay.
As the tournament progresses, France’s performance will continue to be closely monitored, especially with the eventual return of Kylian Mbappe. The team’s place in the knockout stage seems almost certain, allowing them the time and opportunity to address their shortcomings and build upon their strengths.
Overall, France’s latest match demonstrated the impact of missing a key player like Kylian Mbappe and the adjustments that the team will need to make in his absence. However, with their resilience and talent across the squad, France remains a formidable contender in Euro 2024.