Kylian Mbappe has labeled his Euro 2024 campaign a “failure” following France’s 2-1 defeat to Spain in the semi-finals. The Real Madrid forward, who managed only one goal in the tournament, expressed his disappointment after France’s exit.
France took an early lead through Randal Kolo Muani, assisted by Mbappe. However, Spain quickly responded with a stunning equalizer from 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, who curled a shot into the net from 25 yards out, making him the youngest player to score at a European Championship or World Cup. Shortly after, Dani Olmo scored the winning goal, securing Spain’s place in the final.
Mbappe, who had been playing with a protective mask due to a broken nose, struggled throughout the tournament. He admitted that the mask hindered his performance, leading him to play without it in the semi-final.
“Wearing the mask was not easy; it restricted my vision,” Mbappe said. “We had the ambition to be European champions, and I had the ambition to be European champion. We aren’t that, so it’s a failure.”
France’s head coach Didier Deschamps took responsibility for the team’s performance, acknowledging Spain’s superior control and quality. Deschamps has been at the helm of the French national team since 2012 and has a contract running through to 2026, although his future may be in question following the team’s lackluster displays.
Despite the early lead, France failed to capitalize on their chances, with key players like Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann unable to make a significant impact. Mbappe missed a crucial opportunity to send the match to extra time, shooting over the bar.
Spain, led by the extraordinary Yamal, will now face either England or the Netherlands in the final. The Spanish side made history by becoming the first team to win six consecutive games in European Championship history. Yamal’s performance has been a standout, and he will be crucial in Spain’s quest for their third European Championship title.
Reflecting on the match, Mbappe said, “We opened the scoring and thought we were doing the hardest part, but maybe unconsciously, we backed down a bit. We put in less punch and conceded two goals in quick succession. We tried to get back into the game, but it wasn’t enough.”
Deschamps praised Yamal’s impact, stating, “Lamine is doing things which give hints that he might be a great of sport. But we need to remain prudent. We have to help him by keeping his feet on the ground and developing him in the best way. That means calm and tranquility.”
As France contemplates their future, Spain celebrates a remarkable achievement, driven by the talents of their young star, Yamal.
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