Football News: Kylian Mbappe Shines in Euro 2024 Preparations
Kylian Mbappe, the 25-year-old French superstar, appears ready to make a strong comeback to Euro 2024 action after reportedly scoring two goals in a behind-closed-doors friendly match.
Mbappe, who recently broke his nose during France’s 1-0 win against Austria on Monday night, returned to training and was spotted with a plaster on his nose. However, he did not feature in Les Bleus’ 0-0 draw with the Netherlands on Friday.
According to ESPN, Mbappe and his other teammates who did not start the match played in a friendly the following day. The two teams included U21 players from German side Paderborn, with each half lasting 30 minutes.
In the friendly, Mbappe is said to have played on the left wing and scored two goals, as well as assisting two others, leading his side to victory. The new Real Madrid star was also seen wearing the black mask that he will have to feature on his face throughout the rest of Euro 2024, with the player initially ‘a little bothered’ by it before adapting.
The report also mentions that the Paderborn youngsters were told not to be ‘too aggressive’ during their duels and contact with Mbappe.
As the Euro 2024 tournament progresses
As the Euro 2024 tournament progresses, it remains to be seen if Mbappe will be available to start for France when they face Poland in their final Group D match on Tuesday, live on talkSPORT. The French national team entered the tournament in Germany as one of the favorites to go all the way, but they have been relatively unconvincing so far.
Midfield veteran N’Golo Kante has been named as the Player of the Match in both of France’s clashes so far, with the former Chelsea man being one of the most impressive performers. Despite not fully being at the races just yet, France will be confident of beating a Poland side who have already been knocked out, and Mbappe’s form could be the key to boosting Les Bleus to the knockout stages.
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