Masked Mbappé expected to return for France against Poland at Euro 2024

France skipper Kylian Mbappé is expected to defy a broken nose and wear a face mask so he can feature in his side's final pool match at the European championships in Germany on Tuesday evening.

Mbappé, 25, sat out last Friday's 0-0 draw against the Netherlands as he continued his recovery from the injury he sustained during the closing stages of France's opening day win over Austria on 18 June.

The stalemate in Leipzig left France and the Netherlands with four points each after two games in Group D but the Dutch top the pool as they have scored more goals.

While France play Poland, the Netherlands – seeking a first European title since 1988 – will take on Austria in Berlin.

Should Poland beat France and Austria overcome the Netherlands, France should still be able to qualify for the last-16 knockout stages as one of the four best third-placed teams.

"It's no secret that Kylian wants to play against Poland," said France midfielder Aurelién Tchouaméni. "He's starting to get used to the mask. It's not going to change that much for him. We know he'll be ready when he's on the pitch."

Change

Griezmann spurned two good chances to score. But the bright spot for Deschamps came in the shape of Kanté who, for the second consecutive game, was deemed man-of-the-match.

But he bossed the midfield again injecting sobriety when France were under pressure and added urgency to their attacks.

Read more on RFI English

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