Mbappe sends France past Germany to claim Nations League bronze

AFP | Paris

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Kylian Mbappe bagged a goal and an assist as France beat Germany 2-0 in the Nations League bronze-medal match in Stuttgart yesterday.

Mbappe wove his magic in a heavily changed France squad.

Germany dominated the opening half but Mbappe provided the breakthrough just before half-time, carving a shot through a crowded penalty box to bring up his 50th goal in France colours.

Late in the second, with the hosts desperately looking for an equaliser, Mbappe snatched a poor Germany pass on the half-way line and rampaged forward, before setting up Michael Olise.

The French showed their incredible depth, while Mbappe again demonstrated his finishing and pace.

For Germany, who lost two straight straight matches for the first time since 2023, questions remain over how much they have truly improved under Julian Nagelsmann.

In the lead-up to yesterday’s encounter, France coach Didier Deschamps admitted the Nations League clash with old rivals Germany “isn’t the most important game for us,” with a clear focus on next year’s World Cup.

Deschamps made eight changes from the semi-final loss to Spain, with only captain Mbappe, goalie Mike Maignan and midfield veteran Adrien Rabiot keeping their starting spots.

Nagelsmann also rotated heavily, making four changes including bringing striker Niclas Fuellkrug back into the starting XI.