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Düsseldorf, Germany – France got their Euro 2024 campaign off to a winning start with a narrow 1-0 victory over Austria at the Esprit Arena on Monday night.
A Maximilian Wöber own goal in the 38th minute was enough to separate the two sides, as France held on for the win despite losing Kylian Mbappé to injury in the second half.
Wöber’s Own Goal Gives France the Lead
The game started brightly, with both teams having chances to take the lead. Mbappé had France’s first real chance of the game in the ninth minute, but his shot was well saved by Patrick Pentz in the Austria goal.
Austria then had a chance of their own to go ahead through David Baumgartner, but his effort was blocked by Mike Maignan.
The breakthrough came in the 38th minute when Mbappé crossed the ball into the box and it deflected off Wöber and into the net.
Mbappé Goes Off Injured
France had a scare early in the second half when Mbappé was forced off the pitch with a head injury after colliding with Austria defender Stefan Danso.
Despite losing Mbappé, France managed to hold on for the win, with Maignan making a crucial save in the dying minutes to deny Austria an equalizer.
France Top Group D
The win puts France top of Group D, alongside the Netherlands, who also won their opening game of the tournament. Austria are now bottom of the group, with no points from their first two games.
Griezmann Impresses
Antoine Griezmann was France’s best player on the night, with the Barcelona forward providing the assist for the winning goal. Griezmann also worked hard defensively, and he was a constant threat to the Austria defense.
What’s Next?
France will next face the Netherlands in a crunch Group D match on Saturday. Austria will be looking to bounce back when they take on Romania on the same day.
Key Points
- France won their opening Euro 2024 match 1-0 against Austria.
- A Maximilian Wöber own goal in the 38th minute was enough to give France the win.
- Kylian Mbappé was forced off the pitch with a head injury in the second half.
- Antoine Griezmann was France’s best player on the night.
- France will next face the Netherlands, while Austria will take on Romania.