France appear almost certain to reach the last 16 at Euro 2024, but they are hoping to have Kylian Mbappe back and rediscover their goal-scoring touch when they face Poland in their final group game on Tuesday.
As one of the tournament’s leading favorites, France has secured four points from two matches in Group D but has only scored one goal, courtesy of Austrian defender Maximilian Woeber’s own goal. This goal gave France a 1-0 victory against Austria in their opening match in Düsseldorf. They then drew 0-0 with the Netherlands in Leipzig on Friday, in the absence of Mbappe.
The new Real Madrid signing was sidelined against the Dutch as he recovers from a broken nose sustained in a collision late in the game against Austria.
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Mbappe will need to wear a protective mask upon his return but has resumed training with the French team in Paderborn. His teammates are optimistic about having their captain back against Poland.
France’s defensive solidity has been crucial, with the center-back pairing of Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba impressing in front of goalkeeper Mike Maignan. N’Golo Kante has also been outstanding in midfield on his return to the international stage after two years.
France only needs a draw to be certain of reaching the last 16 against a Poland team already eliminated after two defeats. Even a defeat won’t prevent them from advancing, as long as Austria doesn’t beat the Netherlands. To top the group, France must better the Netherlands’ result against Austria or win by a wider margin.
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