Mbappe Shines as France Tops Luxembourg

France, one of the favorites for Euro 2024, showcased their prowess in a convincing 3-0 victory over Luxembourg in an international friendly on Wednesday. Star striker Kylian Mbappe found the net, contributing to France’s commanding performance.

Heading into the tournament in Germany next Friday, France is placed in Group D alongside Netherlands, Austria, and Poland, presenting formidable challenges compared to Luxembourg, who resiliently defended until late in the first half.

Randal Kolo Muani scored his third goal in four games for France with a well-placed header on 43 minutes, assisted by Kylian Mbappe. Marseille’s Jonathan Clauss extended France’s lead to 2-0 with a spectacular strike into the top corner on 70 minutes.

The highlight of the match occurred in the 85th minute when substitute Bradley Barcola skillfully maneuvered around Luxembourg’s defense, setting up Mbappe for his goal. Mbappe, soon to join Real Madrid, demonstrated his scoring prowess with conviction.

France coach Didier Deschamps commented on Mbappe’s performance, stating, “That did him good. Kylian is a great leader, and we need him at his best.”

N’Golo Kante, playing his first match since June 2022, showcased his renowned skills as a holding midfielder, contributing solidly to both defense and attack before leaving the pitch exhausted midway through the second half.

Deschamps praised Kante, saying, “He was as good as ever. He did himself proud.”

Goalkeeper Mike Maignan had a relatively quiet evening, hardly tested by Luxembourg’s offense, thanks to France’s sturdy defense.

The match, held at Metz, saw enthusiastic support for France despite the venue’s recent relegation from the French top flight. Their next challenge is against Canada on Sunday in Bordeaux before their Euro 2024 opener against Austria on June 17 in Dusseldorf.