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WHAT HAPPENED?
Despite France’s eventual 2-0 win over Belgium, which saw goals from Randal Kolo Muani and Ousmane Dembele, the evening was marred by brewing discontent among fans. The dissatisfaction was evident even before the game began at the Groupama Stadium, with fans expressing their frustration through whistles when the team lineup was announced.
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AFPTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The boos were aimed at several figures, including Bradley Barcola, whose move from Lyon to Paris Saint-Germain had upset many OL supporters, and former Marseille player Matteo Guendouzi. However, the most notable targets were coach Deschamps and Mbappe.
The discontent surrounding Mbappe appears to be linked to his recent remarks and performance. In the lead-up to the match, Mbappe made headlines with his comments about fan reactions being “the least of [his] worries”. This statement did not sit well with the French fans, potentially exacerbating the criticism directed at him.
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DID YOU KNOW?
Mbappe is indeed going through a lean patch of form and has failed to find the net in his last five appearances for Les Bleus. His last goal from open play with the French team came seven matches ago, in a Euro 2024 preparation match against Luxembourg. Despite what is a barren run by the Real Madrid star’s own high standards, Deschamps is not worried about Mbappe’s form.
“I am not at all worried and I have never been. We are a bit too focused on him,” Deschamps told TF1. “The France national team will always be stronger with him. I am convinced that in a month, he will be better. I’m not worried about Kylian in any case.”
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AFPWHAT NEXT FOR MBAPPE?
Although Mbappe struck a brace against Real Betis with Real Madrid before heading for international duty, he has largely endured a slow start to life in the Spanish capital. And following a disappointing international break, Carlo Ancelotti will have the onus to bring out the best version of the player against Real Sociedad in La Liga on Saturday.
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