Metz, France – In a commanding display of football, Euro 2024 favorites France secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Luxembourg in an international friendly on Wednesday, June 5.
The match, held in Metz, saw a stellar performance from superstar striker Kylian Mbappé, who found the back of the net and contributed significantly to the team’s overall success.
As France gears up for the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament, set to kick off in Germany next Friday, they find themselves in Group D alongside the Netherlands, Austria, and Poland.
These opponents, while more formidable than Luxembourg, will provide a true test of France’s mettle. However, the friendly against Luxembourg offered a valuable opportunity for Didier Deschamps’ squad to fine-tune their strategies and build confidence.
Early Resistance from Luxembourg
Despite the eventual scoreline, Luxembourg managed to hold their own for much of the first half. Their resolute defense stifled France’s initial efforts, delaying the opening goal until the 43rd minute.
It was then that Randal Kolo Muani, who has now scored three goals in four games for France, broke the deadlock. A precise cross from Mbappé set up Kolo Muani for a deft header that found its way past the Luxembourg goalkeeper, giving France a 1-0 lead.
Clauss’ Stunning Strike and Barcola’s Brilliant Assist
The second half saw France continue to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities.
Jonathan Clauss, the Marseille defender, doubled France’s lead with a spectacular strike in the 70th minute. His powerful shot from outside the box soared into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance and the crowd in awe.
The highlight of the evening, however, came in the 85th minute. Substitute Bradley Barcola showcased his skill and agility by navigating through the Luxembourg defense before delivering a perfect pass to Mbappé.
The Real Madrid-bound forward wasted no time in slotting the ball home with conviction, bringing the score to 3-0 and drawing the loudest cheer of the night.
“That did him good,” commented Deschamps on Mbappé’s performance. “Kylian is a great leader, and we need him at his best,” he added, referring to Mbappé’s previous two less impactful outings for France.
Kante’s Return and Defensive Solidity
N’Golo Kante, the 33-year-old midfielder currently playing for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, made his first appearance for France since June 2022.
Kante’s return was marked by a solid performance, supporting both the defense and the attack until he was substituted midway through the second half, visibly exhausted but proud of his contribution. “He was as good as ever,” Deschamps said. “He did himself proud.”
France’s defense, anchored by a relatively untroubled Mike Maignan in goal, had a quiet evening, thanks to the team’s overall dominance. Maignan’s calm presence ensured that any sporadic threats from Luxembourg were swiftly neutralized.
Looking Ahead to Euro 2024
With this victory, France’s preparations for Euro 2024 are well on track. Deschamps’ men will face Canada in Bordeaux on Sunday, a final warm-up before their tournament opener against Austria on June 17 in Dusseldorf.
The confidence gained from the Luxembourg match, particularly the performances of key players like Mbappé and Kante, bodes well for their campaign in Germany.
As anticipation builds, French fans will be hoping that their team can carry this momentum into the Euros and replicate their success on a much bigger stage.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
