French superstar Kylian Mbappe sustained a nasty nose injury in France’s hard-fought victory over Austria last night and is to don a protective facial mask in the upcoming Euro games for Les Bleus.
The incident, which left the national team and its fans concerned occurred in the 86th minute of the Group D match at Dusseldorf Arena when Mbappe’s aerial challenge with Austria’s Kevin Danso resulted in a head-on-shoulder collision, leaving the 25-year-old forward with a bloodied and swollen nose.
Mbappe, who had earlier contributed to France’s opening goal in the 36th minute, where his inviting cross was headed into the net by Austria’s Maximillian Wober, received immediate on-field treatment before walking off the pitch.
However, when play restarted without allowing France to make a substitution, Mbappe returned to the field without permission, earning him a yellow card before being replaced by Olivier Giroud.
After the match, it was confirmed that Mbappe had suffered a broken nose. While initial indications suggested the need for surgery, the French Football Federation then announced that Mbappe would not undergo the procedure but instead manage the injury with a protective mask.
“Kylian Mbappe will receive treatment in the next few days, but he will not undergo surgery in the immediate future,” the statement read. “A mask will be made for him so that the number 10 of the French national team can prepare for his return to the competition after a period dedicated to treatment.”
The news of Mbappe’s nose injury caused concern among French fans, who have come to rely on the talented forward’s contributions. With 47 goals in 80 appearances for the national team, including a World Cup hat-trick, Mbappe’s presence is crucial to France’s hopes of securing a third European title.
Despite the setback, the French camp remains optimistic, with Mbappe even joking on his official X platform, “Any ideas for masks?,” indicating that the sustained injury may not be that serious, and boosting the team’s morale as they look to face Group D leaders the Netherlands on Friday, 21st June, in a match that will be live on NBS Sport.
