Kylian Mbappe scored the only goal as France began Zinedine Zidane’s tenure as head coach with a 1-0 victory over Turkey in the UEFA Nations League. However, the win was overshadowed by a knee injury that forced the France captain to leave the field shortly after finding the net.
Mbappe Delivers in Zidane’s First Match
Playing on the left side of the attack, Mbappe broke the deadlock in the 54th minute. A pass from Michael Olise set up the France captain, who finished with a low shot to give the visitors the lead.
The goal was Mbappe’s 67th for France, further extending his record as the national team’s leading scorer.
Injury Cuts Short His Night
The celebrations were quickly followed by concern when Mbappe showed discomfort in his left knee. He received treatment but was unable to continue and was replaced by Desire Doue.
The French Football Federation described the problem as a knee tendon injury, while Zidane said the team would not take risks with the forward. Mbappe was expected to return to Madrid for further treatment and assessment.
Zidane Begins With a Victory
The result gave Zidane a winning start in his first match as France coach. The former France midfielder returned to elite international management after previously coaching Real Madrid.
France showed patience and defensive organisation rather than making sweeping tactical changes in Zidane’s first game. Reuters noted that the clearest signs of the new coach’s influence were also visible in training and the team’s day-to-day setup.
Turkey Push France
Turkey created opportunities of its own, particularly during a competitive opening period. France goalkeeper Mike Maignan made an important save early in the second half to keep his team ahead.
France also came close to adding a second goal when Jules Kounde struck the post.
Turkey Reduced to 10 Players
Turkey’s task became harder late in the match when goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir was sent off.
Cakir came outside his penalty area to stop a run from substitute Bradley Barcola. Following a VAR review, the referee determined that the goalkeeper had handled the ball outside the area and showed him a red card.
France Turn Attention to Belgium
The victory gives France an early boost in their Nations League campaign, but attention will now turn to Mbappe’s condition.
France are scheduled to face Belgium in Brussels on September 28, followed by a home meeting with Italy. The French camp will be closely monitoring Mbappe’s recovery before making decisions about his availability.
A Positive Result With a Major Concern
Zidane’s first night as France coach produced the result he wanted, with Mbappe providing the decisive goal. But the captain’s injury has taken much of the focus away from the victory.
For France, the immediate priority will be assessing Mbappe’s knee while maintaining momentum in the Nations League.