France shares the points with Netherlands, Mbappe stays on the bench

Victor Petkov

Head of Content

Last Updated: Jun 21 | 5:10 PM

3 min read

France shares the points with Netherlands, Mbappe stays on the bench

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VAR ruled out Xavi Simons goal, leaving a lot of doubts over the decision

The Netherlands and France played out a tense goalless draw in their Euro 2024 Group D clash, marking the first scoreless match of the tournament. Both teams approached the game cautiously, prioritizing not losing over aggressive play.

In the first half, both sides created opportunities, with the French team attempting to dictate the tempo despite the absence of their star player, Kylian Mbappe. The Dutch, on the other hand, aimed to exploit the skills of Xavi Simons, Memphis Depay, and Jeremie Frimpong on the counter-attack.

Antoine Griezmann had a golden opportunity to score from close range after an unexpected pass from Adrien Rabiot, but he failed to convert, epitomizing a half where neither side fully hit their stride.

The second half continued in a similar vein. Griezmann again missed France’s best chance, and the Netherlands saw a goal by Xavi Simons controversially disallowed for offside, as Denzel Dumfries was deemed to have obstructed French goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

Xavi Simons’ face says it all 💔#TelegraphFootball | #EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/yhAClQWOFI

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Kylian Mbappe hit with criticism over France absence

— Telegraph Football (@TeleFootball) June 21, 2024

Though both teams might be disappointed with their performances, the draw brings them each to four points, virtually ensuring their advancement to the knockout stages. With this result, Poland is confirmed as the first team eliminated from Euro 2024. The final group games will determine whether Austria, France, or the Netherlands will top Group D.