France Awaits Mbappe’s Return to Ignite Goal-Scoring at Euros

Kylian Mbappe

France is on the brink of securing a spot in the last 16 at Euro 2024, but the team eagerly anticipates the return of star forward Kylian Mbappe to revitalize their goal-scoring efforts. Facing Poland in their final group game on Tuesday, the French side, a pre-tournament favorite, has managed just four points from two matches in Group D, with a single goal to their name—an own goal by Austrian defender Maximilian Woeber.

In their opening match, France clinched a 1-0 victory over Austria in Düsseldorf, followed by a goalless draw against the Netherlands in Leipzig. Mbappe, who recently signed with Real Madrid, was absent against the Dutch as he recuperates from a broken nose sustained in a collision during the Austria match. He will need to wear a protective mask upon his return, but he participated in training on Sunday at the French team’s base in Paderborn, raising hopes for his comeback against Poland.

"I think everyone knows he is really eager to play in the next match. That won't surprise anyone," said midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni. "As for the mask, I think he is starting to get used to it. Of course, he would rather not wear it, but I think if you ask the doctor, he would say there is no choice. But that won't change anything for him. We know that when he is on the field, he will bring a lot to the team."

Mbappe’s impact has been sorely missed. It was his cross that led to Woeber’s own goal, France’s only score so far at the Euros. The team’s attacking options without him have struggled: Marcus Thuram, who led the line against the Netherlands, has just two goals in 22 appearances for France. Antoine Griezmann has netted only twice in his last 30 caps, while Ousmane Dembele’s sole goal for France in the last three years came against Gibraltar. Kingsley Coman is still regaining fitness after an injury-laden season with Bayern Munich, and Randal Kolo Muani is coming off a challenging campaign overshadowed by Mbappe at Paris Saint-Germain.

"It is frustrating but nothing to be alarmed about," Griezmann said following the Netherlands game, reflecting on his missed chances. "The defense and midfield are doing a remarkable job, we are leaving very little to the opposition, but we must improve in attack and be more deadly."

As France prepares to face Poland, the potential return of Mbappe could be the catalyst they need to unlock their attacking potential and secure their advancement in Euro 2024.

Defensive Solidity Key as France Nears Euro 2024 Knockout Stage

France's defensive prowess has been a cornerstone of their Euro 2024 campaign, and it could carry them deep into the tournament, even if their attacking struggles persist. The center-back duo of Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba has been impressive, providing robust protection for goalkeeper Mike Maignan. In midfield, N'Golo Kante has been exceptional, marking a triumphant return to the international stage after a two-year absence.

"It is important to underline how solid we have been defensively because I think that is vital when you are trying to win titles," emphasized midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni. "Obviously, we will need to score goals to win matches. That will make things easier, but we are not doubting our ability to do so. The most important thing is that we are creating chances; we just need to start converting them."

France needs only a draw against Poland, who have already been eliminated after losing their first two matches, to ensure their place in the last 16. Even a defeat would not prevent France from advancing, provided Austria does not defeat the Netherlands. However, to top the group, the 2022 World Cup runners-up must either outperform the Netherlands' result against Austria or win by a larger margin.

Finishing position in the group may not drastically alter France's potential last-16 opponents, but it could influence their path in the later stages of the tournament, including possible quarter-final matchups. Poland's veteran striker Robert Lewandowski, now 35, is expected to start after making a substitute appearance against Austria following an injury.

As France gears up for their decisive match against Poland, their defensive stability remains their strongest asset. The return of key players like Kylian Mbappe and their ability to convert chances will be crucial as they aim to progress further in Euro 2024.