Kylian Mbappe scores Zidane-era opener before injury

Zinedine Zidane’s first match as France coach was shaped by Kylian Mbappe’s goal and a late injury concern for the captain. Mbappe gave the new era its opening strike against Turkey in the Nations League in Kocaeli, but could not remain on the field after hurting the back of his knee.

The Real Madrid forward started on the left wing, with Ousmane Dembele used through the middle. On his 107th appearance for France, Mbappe broke the deadlock in the 54th minute. France’s pressure from Jules Kounde and Michael Olise helped create the opening, and Olise found Mbappe unmarked on the left side of the penalty area. He finished low with his right foot for his 67th international goal.

Mbappe did not celebrate. He immediately showed discomfort and received treatment from France’s medical staff. After briefly leaving the pitch, he returned, but the problem quickly forced a further intervention. Mbappe went down again and signalled that he needed to come off.

Desire Doue replaced him in the 59th minute, with Mbappe heading straight to the dressing room. The incident overshadowed the significance of his goal as France began Zidane’s tenure.