At the last World Cup, France was known for scoring goals in various ways, with Kylian Mbappé leading the charge. However, in Euro 2024, the team has struggled to find the back of the net in open play. Despite this, they have managed to reach the semifinals, where they will face Spain.
Head coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged the need for more goals from his team, emphasizing that scoring allows a team to control the game. France has yet to score from open play in the tournament, with two of their three goals coming from own goals. Even Mbappé, who returned from an injury, has been unable to find the net as effectively as before.
Despite their scoring woes, France has managed to reach the semifinals without conceding any goals from open play. This defensive solidity, combined with the individual talents of players like Antoine Griezmann and the collective strength of the team, has kept them in the competition.
Deschamps remains optimistic about his team’s chances, acknowledging that key players like Mbappé and Griezmann are not at their best but highlighting the team’s resilience. The fact that France has reached this stage without their top scorers firing on all cylinders is a testament to their character and determination.
As France prepares to face Spain in the semifinals, the question remains: what will happen when they finally start scoring goals? The team’s ability to stay in the competition despite their scoring struggles has both surprised and impressed onlookers. If they can find their scoring touch, they could prove to be a formidable force in the latter stages of the tournament.