The Netherlands were left frustrated and aggrieved after a contentious Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decision chalked off a second-half goal from Xavi Simons, forcing them to settle for a goalless draw with France in the first scoreless encounter of Euro 2024.
Mbappe’s Absence Felt by France
The French national team, noticeably lacking the attacking prowess of their talisman Kylian Mbappe who sat out the match due to a broken nose, squandered a number of clear-cut chances throughout the game. Antoine Griezmann handed the responsibility to lead the line in Mbappe’s absence, endured a particularly wasteful evening, missing a close-range effort in the first half and failing to convert several other promising opportunities created by Adrien Rabiot and N’Golo Kante.
Dutch Goal Overturned by VAR
The Netherlands, however, felt they had a legitimate claim to all three points after a powerful strike from 21-year-old Simons was inexplicably ruled out for offside. The initial decision by referee Anthony Taylor adjudged Denzel Dumfries, standing in an offside position near the French goalkeeper Mike Maignan, to have obstructed the latter’s view. A lengthy VAR check ensued, ultimately upholding the on-field call, much to the dismay of the Dutch players and supporters. Replays indicated a marginal call, with Dumfries arguably not interfering significantly with Maignan’s ability to make the save.
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Dutch Attack Struggles Despite Weghorst’s Introduction
Despite the setback of the disallowed goal, the Dutch offence also lacked its usual bite. Memphis Depay, who has endured a subdued tournament so far, continued his struggles to find his attacking rhythm. The home crowd’s chants for Wout Weghorst, the hero from the Netherlands’ opening victory against Poland, intensified in the second half. While manager Louis van Gaal eventually introduced Weghorst with eleven minutes remaining, the substitute couldn’t make a decisive impact on the outcome.
Both Teams Progress Despite Draw
The stalemate leaves both sides in a strong position to advance from Group D with four points apiece. Poland, however, is officially eliminated from contention.
France’s Mbappe Dilemma
Didier Deschamps, the France manager, opted for a cautious approach, refraining from introducing Mbappe as a late substitute despite the team’s attacking woes. This decision suggests Deschamps is prioritizing Mbappe’s fitness for the knockout stages, highlighting France’s dependence on their star player and the potential vulnerability they face in his absence. The upcoming fixtures will be a crucial test for Les Bleus’ ability to find the net without Mbappe at the helm.
