Mbappe scores first goal at EURO, France held to a draw by Poland
VTC News•25/06/2024
(VTC News) - The French national team drew 1-1 with Poland and finished second in Group D of EURO 2024.
The Polish team was certainly eliminated after two defeats. However, on their final day of the tournament, Robert Lewandowski and his teammates played their best game. Kylian Mbappe's return didn't significantly improve the French team's performance. The number 10 star – wearing a protective mask – lacked connection with his teammates.
Mbappe continues to disappoint. (Photo: Reuters)
Poland started confidently with a relaxed mindset. They were the team with more shots on goal in the first 30 minutes. It wasn't until the end of the first half that France managed to put pressure on their opponents. Mbappe had two one-on-one opportunities but couldn't beat goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski – who was making his debut for Poland at EURO 2024. After the break, France increased their attacking pressure. Ousmane Dembele earned a penalty in the 55th minute. Mbappe successfully converted the opportunity to score his first goal in a EURO finals tournament. However, France couldn't maintain their advantage. Immediately after Mbappe missed the clear chance, the referee reviewed the footage and awarded a penalty to Poland.
The French team was held to a stalemate against Poland. (Photo: Reuters)
Goalkeeper Mike Maignan saved Lewandowski's shot but was penalized for stepping off the goal line too early. In the retake, the Polish captain successfully converted to equalize. France lost their lead and were unable to regain their dominance. They controlled possession more but were largely ineffective. Mbappe displayed a similar style to EURO 2020, playing individually and rarely coordinating with his teammates. Coach Didier Deschamps brought on Antoine Griezmann, Olivier Giroud, and Kolo Muani, but they failed to make a difference in attack. France scored no further goals and were held to a 1-1 draw. At the end of the group stage, Les Bleus finished second and will face the runner-up of Group E in the Round of 16.
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