UEFA Euro 2024 – Group D
Austria………0
France……….1
France edge narrow win thanks to an own goal.
France made a strong start in Group D of UEFA EURO 2024, securing a narrow victory against formidable opponents through Maximilian Wöber’s own goal.
The French team kicked off their quest for success at UEFA EURO 2024 with a 1-0 win in the opening match, as Austria’s defender Maximilian Wöber unintentionally redirected a Kylian Mbappé cross into his own net.
With the aim of reaching their fourth final in the past five major tournaments, France encountered a determined challenge from Austria right from the beginning.
However, an impressive combination play on the left side provided France with the first opportunity of the game in the eighth minute, as Adrien Rabiot freed Kylian Mbappé who forced goalkeeper Patrick Pentz to make a low save at his near post.
Shortly after, Theo Hernández delivered a tempting ball close to the goal line, but Austria’s renowned intensity allowed them to restrict the influence of France’s key attackers. Ralf Rangnick’s team displayed energy and quickness in their challenges, and they came close to taking the lead when Marcel Sabitzer deftly flicked Michael Gregoritsch’s cross down to Christoph Baumgartner.
However, Baumgartner was unable to find a way past the charging Mike Maignan with his shot.
Instead, it was France that made the first move shortly after, with Mbappé’s quick footwork granting him room on the right side to deliver a cross that unfortunately ended up in Maximilian Wöber’s own net.
The captain of France, who later exited the game due to a nasal injury, missed a great opportunity to extend their lead in the second half, as his shot curled wide after outmaneuvering Wöber for a lofted pass.
This signaled Austria to assert themselves, although they left gaps that France’s forwards threatened to exploit. Antoine Griezmann narrowly missed connecting with a cross, and Thuram’s attempt was saved. Ultimately, France’s lone goal and defensive stability were sufficient to secure the victory.
Line-ups
Austria: Pentz; Posch, Danso, Wöber (Trauner 59), Mwene (Prass 88); Seiwald, Sabitzer; Laimer (Schmid 90+1), Baumgartner, Grillitsch (Wimmer 59); Gregoritsch (Arnautović 59)
France: Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Hernández; Griezmann (Fofana 90), Kanté, Rabiot (Camavinga 71); Dembélé (Kolo Muani 71), Mbappé (Giroud 90), Thuram
