‘Saw Him Struggling’: Didier Deschamps’ Big Claim on Subbing-off Kylian Mbappe vs Portugal in Euro

Portugal and France performed a goalless draw following extra time in a tough and exciting quarter-final match at UEFA Euro 2024, which resulted in a spectacular penalty shootout. Both sides battled valiantly for a place in the next round, thus the game was a show of ability and will. After a stressful 120 minutes, France ultimately triumphed 5-3 in the nail-biting penalty shootout. France had the upper hand in possession and shoots, therefore clinching their place in the semi-finals. The game had 35 shots.

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Didier Deschamps makes a huge statement about removing Kylian Mbappe in extra-time against Portugal 

By beating Portugal 5-3 in a penalty shootout on Friday, July 5, France progressed to the semi-finals of Euro 2024. The game stayed goalless after 120 minutes even with many of scoring chances.

Anticipating a penalty shootout, France's coach, Didier Deschamps, replaced Kylian Mbappe with Bradley Barcola in the 105th minute, therefore marking a pivotal juncture in the game. Over his career, Mbappe has taken 52 penalties; he converted 42 and missed 10.

Deschamps clarified later on the match that Mbappe's tiredness caused the substitution. Speaking to via O Jogo, Didier Deschamps said: 

“He was obviously tired and it's not easy. I saw him struggling in the first half of extra time. It wasn't worth leaving him on the pitch, even if he was the one taking the penalty. Kylian has always been honest with me and the group. It seemed normal to bring some freshness,”

"It was a very tense and hard-fought game. It could have gone either way, although we had a more difficult end to the game in extra time, with less of the ball. There was also fatigue. It's decided by small details, but I'm happy for the group. They gave their all and turned it around for us," 

Kylian Mbappe will now lead France against Spain on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 in the semi-finals of the UEFA Euro 2024.