Kylian Mbappe produced a moment of magic which was mixed with good fortune – to ensure France’s Euro 2024 campaign got off to a winning start against a stubborn Austria in Dusseldorf.
But Mbappe was also at the centre of a late injury scare.
The French team captain and Real Madrid’s latest “Galactico” was replaced in the 90th minute as an eventful night ended with him covered in blood following a painful blow to his nose after an aerial clash with Austria defender Kevin Danso.
Mbappe also picked up a yellow card for returning to the field before falling to the ground, then going off.
He had a mixed night with his finishing but still delivered a decisive contribution to seal three important points against Ralf Rangnick’s well-drilled Austrian side.
The 25-year-old showed lightning pace and fast footwork to leave Austria full-back Phillipp Mwene in his wake before Mbappe’s cross was diverted into his own net by Leeds United centre-back Max Wober’s header seven minutes before half-time.
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