“We Fell Short”: Kylian Mbappe Reflects on France’s Euro Semi-Final Loss to Spain

France captain Kylian Mbappe expressed disappointment following his team’s 2-1 semi-final defeat to Spain at Euro 2024, acknowledging that they fell short of expectations. “We didn’t do enough to reach the final,” Mbappe admitted to reporters. “Spain played better than us, deservedly securing their place in the final while we are heading home.”

Mbappe, who assisted Randal Kolo Muani’s early goal, reflected on his personal ambitions and performance at the tournament. “I had aimed to become European champion and have a successful Euros, but unfortunately, I achieved neither. It’s a letdown,” he lamented.

France, who scored just four goals in the tournament, struggled to replicate their World Cup form from Qatar where Mbappe played a pivotal role with eight goals. Despite a late opportunity to equalize against Spain, Mbappe’s shot sailed over the bar, sealing their elimination. He had played with a protective mask after an early tournament injury but opted to remove it for the semi-final. “I couldn’t see well with it,” Mbappe explained. “I decided to play without it, and I stand by that decision.”