Netherlands vs France lineups: Kylian Mbappe injury latest, predicted XIs and Euro 2024 team news
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Kylian Mbappe will be given until the last moments to declare himself fit for France’s Euro 2024 clash with Netherlands after breaking his nose.
A collision with Austria defender Kevin Danso in Les Bleus’ opening 1-0 win on Monday night left the Real Madrid-bound striker bloodied and unable to continue.
France have sought a custom mask to enable Mbappe, 25, to return to action as soon as possible and he has avoided surgery, and the skipper is hoping to feature.
Reports initially varied as to when Mbappe will be able to play again with some in France suggesting he could miss a fortnight of action, meaning a return during the knockout stages.
However Didier Deschamps confirmed on Thursday that his player has made positive progress. "Everything is going in the right direction after this major shock with the consequences,” he said.
"Yesterday he went out, he did a little activity. This will also be the case this evening. Things are moving in the right direction to ensure that he is available tomorrow."
Deschamps could still call upon Kingsley Coman to start on the left wing against the Dutch, with Randal Kolo Muani and Bradley Barcola alternative options.
France are not expected to make any other changes to their line-up while Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman will consider how to improve on his side’s wastefulness from the comeback win over Poland.
Wout Weghorst is likely to remain a super-sub option despite scoring the late winner but Xavi Simons could be dropped following his poor display in the Group D opener.
Donyell Malen and Jeremie Frimpong are both options to start in his place on the right wing with Memphis Depay expected to remain up top.
Predicted Netherlands XI: Verbruggen; Dumfries, De Vrij, Van Dijk, Ake; Veerman, Schouten; Malen, Reijnders, Gakpo; Depay
Predicted France XI: Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernandez; Kante, Rabiot; Dembele, Griezmann, Thuram; Mbappe
Time and date: 8pm BST, Friday June 21, 2024
TV channel: BBC One
Venue: Red Bull Arena, Leipzig
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