![Mbappe Scores 1st EUROs Goal Against Poland](https://maltadaily.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/mbapweb.jpg)
Kylian Mbappe scored a pivotal penalty for France in their Group D clash against Poland at Euro 2024.
Mbappe’s goal, which came in the 56th minute after Ousmane Dembele was fouled in the penalty box, marked his first-ever goal in a European Championship.
Despite his injury setbacks, including a broken nose that kept him benched in the previous match against the Netherlands, Mbappe confidently converted the spot-kick while wearing a protective mask.
France’s encounter with Poland ended in a 1-1 draw after Robert Lewandowski equalised with a penalty 11 minutes from time. Lewandowski’s initial shot was saved, but he scored on the retake after the French goalkeeper moved off the line prematurely.
With this result and Austria’s simultaneous victory over the Netherlands, France finished second in Group D, securing one win and two draws. They advance to the Round of 16, set to face the runners-up of Group E, which could be Belgium, Romania, Slovakia, or Ukraine.
France’s coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged the team’s achievement of qualifying but emphasized the need for improvement as they head into the knockout stages. Despite not topping their group, France remains in strong contention, poised to compete against top teams like Portugal, Spain, and Germany in the upcoming rounds.
#MaltaDaily