“He said he was happy it was over” - Austria head coach Ralf Rangnick on conversation with France star after Euro 2024 clash
Austria manager Ralf Rangnick shared his conversation with France defender Dayot Upamecano after their UEFA Euro 2024 clash on Monday, June 17. He praised his side's performance, asserting that they put up a good challenge against Les Bleus.
Didier Deschamps' side are one of the favorites to win the tournament this summer. They started their campaign against Austria at the Merkur Spiel-Arena in Dusseldorf, Germany. In a tightly fought contest, Maximilian Wober's 38th-minute own goal secured all three points for France.
After the game, Austria coach Rangnick said about his side's performance and his conversation with Upamecano (via Get French Football News):
“I think that Deschamps was happy at full-time and I think that shows the great performance from my team. They left everything on the pitch […] I spoke with Upamecano too and he said he was happy it was over. It shows our level of performance.”
Austria had more possession (52%) in the game but could only manage five attempts, with three on target. France also had three shots on target but made a total of 14 attempts.
Rangnick's side is currently at the bottom of Group D at Euro 2024, while Deschamps' side are second. The Netherlands lead the table, with Poland in third.
France star on what Kylian Mbappe told him after broken nose in Euro 2024 clash against Austria
The win against Austria came at a cost for France, as captain and talisman Kylian Mbappe suffered a heavy nose injury. He clashed against Kevin Danso towards the end of the game and required lengthy treatment for a bleeding nose. He was eventually subbed off in the 90th minute for Olivier Giroud.
Some reports suggest that he might need surgery. However, RMC Sport have reported that it isn't the case and Mbappe can play with a mask. French midfielder Adrien Rabiot, meanwhile, revealed what the Real Madrid star said about his injury.
“Mbappé is fine. He said that maybe he’ll be ready for the 3rd match," Rabiot said (via Madrid Xtra).
Les Bleus will next face the Netherlands at the Red Bull Arena on Friday, June 21. They will then clash against Poland in their final Euro 2024 group game at Signal Iduna Park on June 25.