Absence of star (Kylian Mbappe) striker troubles French team in Euro 2024 opener: Dependence on key player continues for seventh consecutive match, likes former player and Dutch commentator critic Didier Deschamps

What’s next for the Euro 2024 favorites? The French team, considered title contenders, are facing the harsh reality of over-reliance on their star player after a scoreless draw against the Netherlands on Friday.

Kylian Mbappe, with a broken nose, watched from the bench as Didier Deschamps’ decision reflected a stark truth: It is the seventh consecutive match the Tricolore have failed to win without their star striker. His absence was greatly felt, troubling the team with missed chances.

“Sure, Mbappé is injured. But Deschamps had Moani, Koeman, Barcula on the bench. What does he do? Adds another midfielder and shifts Rabiot to the left wing. This is cowardly football, ” Former Dutch player and commentator Pierre Van Hooydonk bluntly criticized .