Reflecting on the defeat, France skipper Kylian Mbappe emphasized the importance of the team’s performance as they gear up for Euro 2024, where they are considered strong contenders.
Addressing the media on Monday after the 2-0 loss to Germany in Lyon, Mbappe stated, “Our display in such crucial upcoming matches should be a cause for concern to avoid major disappointments.”
Germany managed to secure an early lead with a Florian Wirtz goal just eight seconds into the game, followed by Kai Havertz’s strike after the half-time break.
This defeat marked only the second loss for France since their heartbreaking defeat in the 2022 World Cup final against Argentina, with the previous loss being a 2-1 friendly match against Germany last September.
Mbappe, who was speaking ahead of France’s friendly against Chile in Marseille, emphasized the need for a strong response from the team following the recent setback.
Les Bleus have reached three out of the last four major tournament finals, including European Championships and World Cups combined.
Despite being considered one of the favorites for the upcoming Euro, alongside a formidable England team, Mbappe pointed out that France had a mixed history in the lead-up to major tournaments.
Highlighting the unpredictability of friendly matches, Mbappe stressed that past performances did not always foreshadow the team’s tournament outcome.
France will face the Netherlands and Austria in their Euro group stage, with the winner of the decisive qualifier between Wales and Poland also joining their group.
Anticipating a less than warm reception in Marseille, Mbappe remained focused on delivering his best performance regardless of the crowd’s response.
Looking ahead, Mbappe will return to Marseille with PSG for a league fixture over the weekend.
AFP