France’s Kylian Mbappé Suffers Broken Nose in Euro 2024 Win Over Austria

France commenced their European Championship campaign on Monday with a narrow 1-0 victory over Austria, but the win was overshadowed by an injury to star striker Kylian Mbappé.

Leading 1-0 in the final minutes of the match held in Germany, Mbappé’s nose was bloodied following a collision, resulting in his departure from the game. France’s manager Didier Deschamps indicated after the match that Mbappé likely sustained a broken nose.

According to media reports, the French Football Federation confirmed Mbappé’s broken nose and stated that he was being transported to a local hospital in Düsseldorf, Germany. Initial reports suggested that he would undergo surgery, but it was later decided that he would not need surgery following treatment at the hospital.

Mbappé’s availability for the remainder of the European Championship remains uncertain.

The injury occurred during a set piece in front of Austria’s goal when Mbappé headed the ball and collided with the shoulder of Austria’s Kevin Danso. The impact left Mbappé’s nose bloodied and disfigured.

Mbappé attempted to re-enter the game in the 89th minute but immediately sat back down, holding his nose. He had returned to the field without permission from the officials, resulting in a yellow card.

Despite the injury, France secured a 1-0 victory, thanks to an own goal by Austria’s Maximilian Wöber, which came off a pass from Mbappé.

Looking ahead, Mbappé’s injury and yellow card pose concerns for France’s ongoing Euro campaign. Should Mbappé return to play, he faces the risk of a one-game ban with another yellow card.

France’s next match in group play is scheduled against the Netherlands on Friday.