Kylian Mbappe and the French national team are setting their sights on a new chapter in their quest for glory as they launch their Euro 2024 campaign against Austria on Monday. Having experienced both the heights of victory and the depths of heartbreak in recent international tournaments, Les Bleus are determined to claim the one major accolade that has eluded them: the European Championship trophy.
France, under the tutelage of Didier Deschamps, has a storied history in the World Cup. In 2018, a teenage Mbappe burst onto the global scene, dazzling fans with his speed and skill, as Les Bleus lifted the World Cup in Russia. Their journey continued to be remarkable as they reached the final once again in the 2022 tournament, only to face a devastating defeat to Argentina on penalties after an epic showdown in Doha. Despite their disappointment, France’s resilience has reinforced their resolve to conquer their next big challenge.
France’s recent triumph in the UEFA Nations League in 2021 further cements their status as one of the powerhouses in international football. However, their pursuit of the European Championship—a title that has remained tantalizingly out of reach since Deschamps took charge in 2012—continues to be their driving force. Memories of past disappointments, particularly the heart-wrenching loss in the 2016 Euro final as hosts, linger in their minds. On that sweltering night at the Stade de France, Portugal clinched victory in extra time, leaving the French players and fans in tears.
The bad taste of their last Euro campaign, held in 2020 but delayed to 2021 due to the global pandemic, is still fresh. France’s journey was abruptly cut short in the last 16 after squandering a 3-1 lead against Switzerland and subsequently losing on penalties. The image of Kylian Mbappe missing the crucial kick is etched in the collective memory of French supporters. Now, Mbappe is fueled by redemption, driven by the desire to lead his nation to victory in Germany.
Speaking about Deschamps, Mbappe highlighted his coach’s significant impact on the team, saying, “Whatever happens, he has left an indelible mark on the French national team.
. If he wants to make more history, we need to do something this summer because the Euros is the only thing he is missing as a coach.”
As France prepares to face Austria, Deschamps’s squad is well aware of the challenges that lie ahead. The manager, who has been at the helm for over a decade, understands the importance of this tournament not just for his legacy but for the current generation of French talents. Players like Mbappe, who symbolize the youthful exuberance and skill of the team, will be instrumental in their campaign.
The French team’s preparation for Euro 2024 has been meticulous, with Deschamps focusing on blending experienced veterans with promising newcomers. This mix aims to bring the right balance of leadership and innovation on the pitch. The squad’s depth and versatility give them a tactical advantage, allowing them to adapt to various styles of play they might encounter throughout the tournament.
France’s relentless pursuit of European glory is not just about adding another trophy to their collection; it’s about redemption and establishing their dominance in a competition that has repeatedly slipped through their fingers. The lessons learned from past failures have fortified their resolve, and their journey to Germany is laden with hopes of finally conquering the European throne.
As the nation rallies behind Les Bleus, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation and optimism. The upcoming match against Austria is more than just an opening game; it’s a statement of intent from a team ready to rewrite history. The French supporters, known for their passionate backing, will be eager to see their team perform at its best and bring home the coveted European Championship.
With Mbappe as their spearhead and Deschamps strategically guiding from the sidelines, France embarks on this campaign with a singular goal: to emerge victorious and complete their illustrious collection of titles. The road may be fraught with challenges, but for France, this journey is a testament to their undying spirit and unyielding pursuit of excellence.
