The Euro 2024 Group D clash between France and the Netherlands concluded in a goalless draw, leaving both teams on equal footing with four points each. French star Kylian Mbappé was sidelined, observing from the bench due to a nasal fracture. Despite his absence, the French team, led by Antoine Griezmann, forged several scoring chances but failed to convert them. The Netherlands also came close to breaking the deadlock, notably with Xavi Simons’ goal, which was controversially disallowed for offside after a VAR review. The decision to keep Mbappé benched was strategic, as coach Didier Deschamps prioritized his recovery, stating, ‘If it was a decisive game I would have thought twice about him playing,’ highlighting the risk involved.The stalemate has heightened the anticipation for the final group matches, with France set to face the already eliminated Poland, while the Netherlands will challenge Austria. Both teams are eyeing a victory to secure their advancement to the knockout stages. French captain Mbappé, known for his game-changing abilities, may return to the lineup against Poland, adding to the team’s offensive arsenal. The Netherlands, led by manager Ronald Koeman, remain optimistic despite the draw, with Koeman expressing his frustration over the disallowed goal but looking forward to the next match.
Key points
- France and the Netherlands ended in a 0-0 draw, with both teams now having four points in Group D of Euro 2024.
- French star Kylian Mbappé watched from the bench due to a nasal fracture, with his team unable to score in his absence.
- Xavi Simons’ disallowed goal for the Netherlands after a VAR review added to the controversy and frustration of the match.
Contradictions👾While most sources report on the disallowed goal and Mbappé’s benching as key aspects of the match, there are discrepancies in the details of the VAR decision and the exact impact of Mbappé’s absence on the French team’s performance.
