According to coach Luis de la Fuente, striker Kylian Mbappe, although not in form, is still a danger to the Spanish team in the Euro 2024 semi-finals.
Mbappe is the only French player to score in five games at the tournament, with the other two goals coming from own goals. The 26-year-old striker’s form has not been highly rated, but coach De la Fuente is still cautious.
France’s Kylian Mbappe scores against Portugal’s Pepe during the Euro 2024 quarter-final match at Volkspark in Hamburg, Germany on July 5. Photo: Reuters
“Mbappe is unpredictable and never disappears on the pitch,” the 63-year-old coach said at a pre-match press conference. “50% of Mbappe’s ability is 100% of any other player’s ability. He is a superstar, a genius, he can decide the game in two plays. We have to find a way to limit Mbappe’s ability, and I believe the team will do it.”
Mbappe has had problems at the tournament, since breaking his nose in the opening match against Austria. He has had to wear a mask since then, and has been in pain every time he takes it off. Teammates have also said the mask limits the French captain’s vision. “Mbappe is still France’s biggest danger,” midfielder Rodri said. “I don’t care what they say, but Mbappe can change the game easily.”
Not only Mbappe, the French attack has wasted many opportunities since the beginning of the tournament, although Marcus Thuram, Randal Kolo Muani and Antoine Griezmann have all received many good opportunities. France has also only conceded one goal since the beginning of the tournament, so their defense is highly appreciated by Fuente and Rodri.
Another problem for Didier Deschamps’ team is their “sleepy” style of play. But when asked by reporters about this, Fuente said: “There are people who think France plays boringly, but I don’t see it that way,” the Spanish coach added. “I have never seen boring football. I have analyzed the opponents and I see that they have special potential.”
Deschamps again considered Spain the strongest team from the start of the tournament. And when asked about the French coach’s statement, Fuente said: “I also agree that Spain is the strongest. Even if we were eliminated, I would still think so. But France is ahead and they are just as strong.”
