Deschamps Admits Mbappe Had Breathing Issues with Mask in France’s Poland Draw

In the high-stakes arena of international football, Kylian Mbappe’s recent journey has been nothing short of remarkable. During France’s opening victory against Austria, Mbappe suffered a brutal blow to his face, resulting in a fractured nose. Bloodied but unbowed, he left the pitch in an ambulance.

Miraculously, subsequent tests revealed no need for immediate surgery. Just eight days later, Mbappe was back in training, donning a protective mask adorned with the French tricolore.

Mbappe’s return to the starting lineup against Poland was met with curiosity. How would he cope with the mask? Coach Didier Deschamps shed light on the situation.

“Despite everything he has gone through,” Deschamps explained, “a week after the blow, it was complicated.” The mask posed challenges—sweat sticking to his eyes, impairing vision.

But Mbappe soldiered on, playing the full game—first as a central striker, then on the left wing. His hunger for the game was evident.

Mbappe’s moment arrived—a second-half penalty. He stepped up, determined. But fate had other plans. Robert Lewandowski’s 79th-minute spot kick leveled the score.

France finished as Group D runners-up, setting the stage for a daunting knockout phase alongside football heavyweights: Portugal, Germany, and Spain.