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Deschamps Reveals Mbappe Requested Substitution Against Portugal
French striker, and captain, Kylian Mbappe asked to be substituted during extra-time in the Euro 2024 quarter-final win over Portugal because he was tired, his coach Didier Deschamps said.
Mbappe, known for his prolific goal-scoring, has not been top form for France during the Euros. He managed to score only once from a penalty kick against Poland but has struggled to convert other chances.
Additionally, he appeared uneasy wearing a mask after sustaining a broken nose in the first game.
During the quarter-final match against Portugal on Friday night, Mbappe was seen on the ground and briefly took off his mask following a strong impact from the ball on the side of his face.
Subsequently, he requested to be substituted and was absent during the shootout.
“Yes, he’s always very honest with me and the team, when he feels he can’t accelerate… He’s not at his top form … he felt very tired indeed,” Deschamps said, referring to muscle fatigue and the nose issue.
“I saw him struggling during the first period of extra time. It was pointless (to leave him on). Kylian has always been honest with me and the group, so it was only natural to bring in some new blood.”
“At the end of normal time, we’d already spoken to the coach,” said Mbappé himself in the mixed zone after the game. “We decided to give it a go, but at half-time [of extra time], I told him I wasn’t feeling it anymore, that I was too tired.”
“I think you have to get over that. When you’re captain, you have to above all always stay involved and be there for your team-mates. I’ve always said before competitions that whatever happens, the important thing is that we win. People thought it was a joke, but here we are. I only scored one goal, but we’re in the semi-finals and I’m still very happy.”
In his absence, Mbappe’s teammates did him proud, scoring a perfect five penalties to beat Portugal 5-3.
