Didier Deschamps said Kylian Mbappe’s nose injury is “not good” after a hefty collision during France’s 1-0 win over Austria.
Les Bleus got off to a winning start at Euro 2024 courtsey of Maximillian Wober’s own goal, which was scored after some excellent work by France skipper Mbappe.
But an eventful night for the Real Madrid star saw him withdrawn after a collision with Austria defender Kevin Danso, which left the forward covered in blood.
Discussing the injury after the match, Didier Deschamps said: “[Kylian] is not doing well. I can’t say more because I’ve had media duties, but his nose is not good.
“It’s complicated. That’s the black mark from this evening.”
Deschamps later admitted to French outlet TF1 that Mbappe’s nose is “probably broken”, leaving France sweating over their talisman’s availability for their remaining group games.
🚨🇫🇷 Didier Deschamps: “Yes, Kylian Mbappé has probably broken his nose”,
told TF1.In that case, Mbappé would wear a mask for the rest of the Euros. pic.twitter.com/5dLrACmpNS
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 17, 2024
Other than that potential issue, Deschamps was happy with what he saw from his side on their Euro 2024 bow, holding firm against an Austria side who caused them plenty of problems.
“We could have dealt with certain situations better on the first or second ball, but overall we performed well.
“We had quality as well as talent, and there was good solidarity among the players. We need to keep that up. I’m satisfied with this opening win.”
‘We were in it until the end’
Austria boss Ralf Rangnick admitted France were worthy winners but insisted his side can take plenty of positives away from the narrow defeat.
He said: “We created chances. Of course, France also created chances.
“Patrick Penz, our goalkeeper, did a great job. I have no reproaches towards my teams. They didn’t always make the right decision, but let’s not forget who the opponents were.
“We lost the match. Let’s be fair. France had more chances and it was a deserved win. But until the last minute, we were in it.
“We put everything on the pitch. Now we have to look forward and try to win against Poland on Friday.”
