By In a tense Euro 2024 group-stage encounter, France and the Netherlands played out a 0-0 draw in Leipzig, with controversy surrounding a disallowed Dutch goal. The match, notable for the absence of French star Kylian Mbappé from the starting lineup, saw both sides create chances but ultimately fail to break the deadlock.
The game’s most contentious moment came midway through the second half when the Netherlands’ Xavi Simons thought he had given his team the lead. Despite Simons’ powerful shot from the edge of the box, the VAR review chalked the goal off. The decision centered on Denzel Dumfries’ positioning, with officials ruling he was too close to French goalkeeper Mike Maignan, obstructing his view as the ball hit the net.
Despite seeing less of the ball, the Netherlands created several promising opportunities on the counterattack. Jeremie Frimpong tested Maignan with a well-struck effort in the first half, while Cody Gakpo also came close to breaking the deadlock.
With Mbappé confined to the bench due to an injury, France struggled to capitalize on their possession advantage. Antoine Griezmann, usually reliable in front of goal, had an uncharacteristically poor night, squandering two clear-cut chances in the penalty area.
The match highlighted the resurgence of N’Golo Kante, who showcased his creative prowess with a series of elegant passes into dangerous areas. Kante’s performance suggested a return to form following injury-plagued seasons and his recent move to Saudi Arabia.
However, his teammates didn’t always match Kante’s excellence. Adrien Rabiot missed a late opportunity to set up a winner, failing to find Kingsley Coman with a cross in a promising position.
This goalless draw, the first of Euro 2024, has significant implications for Group D. While France and the Netherlands remain in strong positions to qualify, the result confirms Poland as the first team eliminated from the tournament.
As the competition progresses, questions will arise about France’s attacking prowess without Mbappé in the starting lineup. For the Netherlands, the disallowed goal will undoubtedly be a talking point, but their solid defensive display and counterattacking threat will encourage the matches ahead.
With both teams still in contention, the final group stage matches will be crucial in determining the outcome of Group D and the path forward in Euro 2024 for these football powerhouses.
