Mbappe Masterclass Secures Bronze for France in Nations League

STUTTGART, Germany (AP) — In a display of clinical efficiency, Kylian Mbappe guided France to a 2-0 victory over hosts Germany in the Nations League third-place playoff, providing both a goal and assist to cap an otherwise disappointing tournament for Les Bleus.

The match at Mercedes-Benz Arena showcased the stark contrast between France’s lethal finishing and Germany’s profligacy, with Julian Nagelsmann’s side wasting numerous chances before being punished by their superstar opponents.

Match Analysis: How France Turned the Tide

First Half: German Dominance, French Efficiency

• Shots: GER 12-3 FRA

• xG: GER 1.7 – 0.4 FRA

• Key Moment: Mbappe’s 44th-minute opener against run of play

The breakthrough came courtesy of Real Madrid synergy, as Aurelien Tchouameni intercepted a German attack and launched a 60-yard diagonal that Mbappe controlled effortlessly before slotting past Manuel Neuer.

“Football rewards efficiency,” noted France coach Didier Deschamps. “We suffered in the first half but Kylian’s quality made the difference.”

Second Half: Tactical Adjustments

France’s improved second-half display featured:
✅ Midfield press to disrupt German buildup
✅ Introduction of Michael Olise (84th-minute goal)
✅ Switch to 5-3-2 defensive shape

Germany’s frustrations compounded when Deniz Undav’s 63rd-minute equalizer was disallowed for a Niclas Füllkrug foul in the buildup – a decision that VAR upheld after three minutes of review.

Player Ratings: Standout Performances

Tournament Takeaways

For France:
🔹 Mbappe finishes with 3 goals (joint tournament leader)
🔹 Defensive concerns remain (8 goals conceded in 4 games)

For Germany:
🔸 Winless in last 5 competitive matches
🔸 Nagelsmann’s xG underperformance continues

The result sets up an intriguing Euro 2024 group stage rematch between these sides on June 25 in Düsseldorf.