France captain Kylian Mbappe has revealed the challenges he faces playing with a mask as he prepares to lead the national team against Belgium in the Round of 16 of the 2024 Euros today.
Mbappe’s nose was broken during their first game against Australia, which they won 1-0, after a collision with an opponent.
The injury sidelined him during France’s second game against the Netherlands, but he returned for the third group game and scored to help his team secure a point while wearing the mask.
“I didn’t think it would be, but playing with a mask is absolutely horrible,” Mbappe said before the Belgium game in Dusseldorf.
“I have changed the mask because every time there was something that wasn’t right. It is really difficult. It limits your vision and the sweat gets blocked up, so you have to take it off to let it run away.
“As soon as I can take it off, I will, but I don’t have a choice. That is how my tournament is going to be. I can only play like that. It is really annoying, but I have to just say thanks to the mask.”
