The offside controversy took center stage in Kylian Mbappe’s absence as the Netherlands and France drew 0-0 in Group D in Leipzig.
Xavi Simons thought he had given the Netherlands the lead late in the match, but the flag was raised due to Denzel Dumfries having an impact on the game. Anthony Taylor sent him off and video assistant referee Stuart Attwell upheld the decision.
The call was highly questionable as the ball sailed into the bottom corner with goalkeeper Mike Maignan seemingly unprepared to dive. But English officials ruled it out as the highly anticipated match ended in the first goalless draw of the tournament.
Didier Deschamps’ team had been in the lead in a match which otherwise would not have been able to ignite without Mbappé, who remained on the bench following his broken nose. Antoine Griezmann had the best chances but failed to find the finish.
This draw means that the Netherlands remain at the top of Group D, ahead of France on goal difference. Poland, beaten 3-1 by Austria earlier today, becomes the first nation to be eliminated from Euro 2024 following this result.
Netherlands’ Xavi Simons, unseen, scores controversial disallowed goal
Denzel Dumfries (22 years old) would have hampered goalkeeper Mike Maignan
Analysis: Saliba shines | Others to come from France
Two matches for France and, thanks to this very questionable offside call against the Netherlands, two clean sheets for the tournament favorites. Arsenal’s William Saliba played an important role in this, oozing class in the center of the French defense.
An ideal foil for the physical Dayot Upamecano, these high-profile comments from Deschamps hinting at weaknesses in Saliba’s game only become more confusing after each performance. There cannot be better defenders in European football.
The underlying numbers reflect France’s control better than Simons’ moment. Against Austria, they recorded an expected goals total of 2.13 compared to 0.76 for their opponents. Here their total was 1.42, compared to their opponents’ paltry 0.33.
On the other hand, the goals will surely start coming in soon. Even without Mbappé, they created chances. Griezmann should have scored at least one, twice failing to find the goal from close range. One goal in two games doesn’t tell the whole story.
Alongside Saliba and Upamecano, the full-backs are rock solid and N’Golo Kanté is still impressive in midfield. The attackers have not yet taken a shot but the options in attack are numerous. Expect Mbappe to have his day when the stakes are a little higher.
This may seem like a generous interpretation after four points from two matches – like England. But this side seems happier in his skin. Saliba conquered Deschamps. It would not be surprising if the rest of France followed suit by mid-July in Berlin.
