Kylian Mbappe, the star forward for France, has addressed concerns regarding an ankle injury sustained during his nation’s World Cup quarter-final match against Morocco. Despite exiting the game in the 77th minute, Mbappe stated he is “completely fine” and described the issue as a “minor ankle injury.”
During the match, Mbappe opened the scoring for France in the second half. His goal was followed by another from teammate Ousmane Dembele, securing a 2-0 lead for the French side. Earlier in the game, Mbappe had a penalty saved by Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou after being fouled by Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui.
Mbappe’s goal in the quarter-final tied him with Lionel Messi’s eight goals in the race for the World Cup Golden Boot. His departure from the field occurred during open play when he raised his arm towards the bench and lay down, stretching his right leg. He was seen waving to the crowd as he walked off and high-fiving teammates on the bench.
Following his exit, television footage showed Mbappe on the France bench with ice applied to his right foot. France ultimately won the match 2-0. After the final whistle, Mbappe returned to the Gillette Stadium pitch, smiling and embracing his teammates. He was later observed celebrating with his team in front of their fans, jumping up and down.
Mbappe’s Post-Match Comments and Leadership Role
Speaking after the match, Mbappe confirmed his condition. “I have a minor ankle injury, but I’m completely fine,” he said, adding that Jean-Philippe Mateta was in a better position to play the remaining minutes. Coach Didier Deschamps also provided an update, stating that Mbappe has “a slight pain in his ankle, but nothing serious.”
Mbappe was named Player of the Match for his performance against Morocco. When asked about France’s upcoming semi-final opponent, either Belgium or Spain, Mbappe expressed indifference. “It doesn’t matter to me. If it’s Belgium, then it’s Belgium. If it’s Spain, then it’s Spain. We’ll see what happens. It’s a semi-final, and it’s always going to be a difficult match,” he commented.
The France captain also discussed his leadership role within the national team, particularly off the field. He noted his deep care for the team and group, highlighting his long-standing friendships with many players and his role as an experienced figure for younger members. Mbappe emphasized his responsibility to set an example, especially emotionally, and to share his World Cup experience with his teammates.
Mbappe has completed 90 minutes for France in matches against Senegal in the group stage and Paraguay in the round of 16. Coach Didier Deschamps had previously given his star player precautionary rests during parts of games against Iraq, Norway, and Sweden.
Looking Ahead to the Semi-Finals
The forward also reflected on eliminating his close friend Achraf Hakimi and Morocco from the tournament. He explained that while there are no emotions on the field during competition, seeing Hakimi again in the dressing room would be more difficult due to their personal friendship.
When questioned about whether the current France squad is stronger than the team that won the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Mbappe responded that it is not. He noted that while the current team has significant potential and quality, the strongest teams are those that have won trophies. He stated that this team has not yet been a world champion or runner-up.
France is hopeful that Mbappe will be available for their semi-final match in Dallas on Tuesday, July 14, against either Spain or Belgium.
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Source: nytimes.com
