by In the first semifinal of the Euro 2024, France will start Kylian Mbappe against Spain on Tuesday. When major events reach their final week, there’s never much certainty, but that’s the one you can lock in place, take to the bank, and wager the house on.
It doesn’t matter that Mbappe hasn’t been able to play close to his typical level. Or that his lack of energy prevented him from seeing out France’s quarterfinal match against Portugal. Or that he detests donning his nose-protecting mask and finds it impossible to breathe, see, or anticipate as much when it’s on.
When questioned about Mbappe by reporters on Monday, head coach Didier Deschamps said, “Even if he is not completely fit physically, he will play.”
“It would have been good for us to have an extra day. Despite our best efforts to get him some rest, I firmly believe that his mental health is intact. First it was his back, and then the mask. Though he is still here with us, it might have been the end.”
Though Deschamps’ team may have the most depth in the competition, Mbappe is the only player who is worth taking a chance on. The 25-year-old can have such a significant impact on important games.
The biggest match for France since the 2022 World Cup final, when Lionel Messi and Argentina prevailed despite spectacular goals from Mbappe (three goals in the shootout and another).
According to midfielder Adrien Rabiot, momentary slumps in performance, such as those experienced by Mbappe and seasoned player Antoine Griezmann, shouldn’t be grounds for alarm or replacement.
According to Rabiot, these players have the power to change the outcome of the match at any moment. Especially if we want to make it to the final and prevail, we will need them all the way through.
Mbappe’s struggles with scoring have mirrored Deschamps’ entire squad, with only three goals from open play. He broke his nose in Austria’s opening game and requested mask recommendations on social media, highlighting the difficulty of playing in a mask.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente acknowledged the limitations of masks, citing a previous facial injury suffered by defensive stalwart Robin Le Normand. He noted that Le Normand struggled with breathing, fatigue, and muscle issues. However, de la Fuente praised Mbappe’s potential and said that his best version has not yet been seen.
Jesus Navas, a 2010 World Cup-winning Spain player, will serve as right-back for suspended Dani Carvajal and monitor Mbappe’s left-sided attacking position, ensuring Mbappe’s ability to overwhelm is managed with teammate support.
Spain’s Le Normand is suspended, leaving room for 34-year-old Nacho, potentially opening up for Mbappe to boost France’s scoring.
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