Euro 2024: France and Netherlands Draw 0-0, Poland Eliminated

Euro 2024: France and Netherlands Draw 0-0

France and Netherlands Play to First Goalless Draw of Euro 2024

In a crucial Group D matchup at Euro 2024, France and the Netherlands played to a 0-0 draw on Friday, leaving the group’s qualification scenarios wide open. This result marked the first goalless draw of the tournament and confirmed Poland's elimination.

Group D Standings and Scenarios

France, which could have secured a spot in the round of 16 as group leaders with a win, remains at the top with four points. The Netherlands also has four points, keeping both teams within reach of advancing. Meanwhile, Poland, with zero points after a 3-1 loss to Austria, became the first team to be eliminated from the tournament.

Match Highlights

The absence of French captain Kylian Mbappe, who was benched due to a broken nose sustained in the opener, was a significant talking point. Despite moments of excitement, neither team managed to dominate.

• Disallowed Goal: The Netherlands’ Xavi Simons had a goal disallowed in the second half due to Denzel Dumfries being offside. The decision, confirmed by VAR after a lengthy review, kept the scoreline even.
• Early Chances: Both teams had opportunities in the first half. Dutch player Jeremie Frimpong's early effort was saved by French keeper Mike Maignan, and Antoine Griezmann’s shot was similarly denied at the other end.
• Missed Opportunities: France’s Adrien Rabiot missed a chance when he passed to Griezmann, who lost possession. Griezmann, filling in as France’s main offensive threat, had several attempts but couldn’t convert.

Upcoming Matches

The draw means that both France and the Netherlands likely need only a point from their next matches to advance. France will face Poland, while the Netherlands will play Austria, who currently has three points.

Mbappe’s Impact

Mbappe's potential return was highly anticipated, but his absence was felt. AntoineGriezmann took on the role of France’s main offensive player, but the team lacked its usual dynamism without Mbappe.

Tactical Analysis

• France: Increased the tempo in the second half, with notable attempts from Marcus Thuram and Aurelien Tchouameni, but failed to find the net.
• Netherlands: Struggled to create clear chances, with attacks often fizzling out before reaching the penalty area.

Conclusion

The 0-0 draw keeps Group D wide open, with both France and the Netherlands well-positioned to advance. Poland's elimination underscores the high stakes and competitive nature of Euro 2024.