Mbappe’s Uncomfortable Mask
France’s Struggles: In France’s recent win against Belgium, Kylian Mbappe was seen adjusting his mask multiple times. He still needs to be comfortable with it. However, Mbappe is one of many French forwards who look uneasy. The forward line struggled to deliver in front of the goal again.
Fortunate Own Goal Secures Victory
In the 85th minute, a Jan Vertonghen own goal secured France’s place in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024. Randal Kolo Muani’s strike deflected off Vertonghen, leading to this fortunate goal. France has now scored three goals in the tournament, none from open play.
Lack of Efficiency in Attack
France had 19 shots against Belgium, but only two were on target. It highlights their ongoing issue with scoring, a topic frequently addressed in press conferences. Despite the criticism, coach Didier Deschamps remains defiant. He pointed out that even a deflected goal requires someone to take the shot.
Struggling Scoring Stats
Football is about entertainment, and scoring goals is a significant part of it. Speaking to a France fan before the match in Dusseldorf, the complaint was transparent: the team is too dull. The statistics support this sentiment. France is the lowest scorer among the remaining teams, with just three goals. It is seven fewer than Germany, which is gaining momentum.
Deschamps’ Tactical Changes
Deschamps has tried various tactics to ignite his forward line, from benching Antoine Griezmann to adjusting the formation. Yet, the real challenge is getting Mbappe comfortable with his mask. The Real Madrid-bound striker has an impressive record, with 48 goals in 82 appearances for France and 256 in 308 appearances for Paris St-Germain. Against Belgium, Mbappe’s movement was there, but his finishing was off.
France’s Struggles: Mbappe and the Mask
France will face more confident teams as it moves deeper into the competition. Their attackers must start delivering. Former England midfielder Izzy Christiansen noted that while luck can be created in football, France cannot rely on it indefinitely.
Mbappe’s Adjustment Period
Deschamps acknowledged that Mbappe is still getting used to the mask. It affects his vision and can be bothersome when sweating. The mask might be necessary for weeks or even months. France hopes Mbappe can adapt quickly to ensure they perform at their best in the quarter-finals.
France’s journey in Euro 2024 continues, but its success hinges on overcoming these attacking challenges.
