Kylian Mbappe scored a goal and provided an assist as France triumphed over Germany 2-0 in the Nations League bronze-medal match held in Stuttgart on Sunday. Mbappe showcased his skills in a significantly altered France lineup.
Germany controlled the first half, but just before the interval, Mbappe broke the deadlock by threading a shot through a congested penalty area, marking his 50th goal for the French national team.
Later in the second half, as the home team desperately sought an equaliser, Mbappe intercepted a poor pass from Germany at the halfway line and surged forward, ultimately assisting Michael Olise.
The French team displayed remarkable depth, while Mbappe once again highlighted his finishing ability and speed. For Germany, which suffered consecutive defeats for the first time since 2023, there are lingering questions about their actual progress under Julian Nagelsmann.
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Ahead of Sunday’s match, France coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged that the Nations League encounter against their traditional rivals Germany “isn’t the most important game for us,” emphasising a clear focus on the upcoming World Cup next year.
Deschamps implemented eight changes from the semi-final defeat to Spain, retaining only captain Mbappe, goalkeeper Mike Maignan, and veteran midfielder Adrien Rabiot in their starting positions. Nagelsmann also made significant rotations, introducing four changes, including the return of striker Niclas Fuellkrug to the starting lineup.
The Germans created numerous opportunities in the first half. Karim Adeyemi earned a penalty, which was subsequently overturned by VAR for diving. Florian Wirtz struck the post.
Mbappe found the net just before half-time. The Real Madrid player received a pass that sailed over the 1.77-meter-tall Joshua Kimmich’s head, took a touch, and unleashed a powerful shot with his favoured right foot.
