Mbappé injury 'big negative' for France in win over Austria - ESPN

France manager called star striker Kylian Mbappé's exit with a suspected broken nose late in their 1-0 win over Austria at the European Championship on Monday «a big negative.»

The striker, involved in the first-half goal, clashed heads with Austria's Kevin Danso late in the Group D game at Dusseldorf Arena. He was in obvious pain as he lay curled on the grass, prompting Austria goalkeeper Patrick Pentz to signal for medical attention.

"[His] nose is not good at all. Even if it's just the nose, it's the big negative point for us tonight," Deschamps said after the game.

Mbappé received treatment and his shirt was covered with blood from what appeared to be a blow to his nose. He tried to play on but quickly fell to the ground, holding his face and prompting whistles and jeers from Austria's fans, who seemed to believe he was time-wasting as France held on for the win.

He was booked by referee Jesus Gil Manzano and replaced by Olivier Giroud.

France needed an own goal from Maximilian Wober in the 38th minute and handed Deschamps his 100th victory as national team coach.

«Happy with what the players did even if we missed opportunities to double the tally,» Deschamps said. «It was not perfect but we were solid. We could have been more efficient offensively but it's good to start with a win.

»There's quality and talent but being solid and working together is also important. We're not going to be over-confident, but it's a good start."

On a mixed day for Mbappé, it was his moment of inspiration that led to the decisive goal. With a flash of close-ball control, he beat Phillipp Mwene in the box and crossed in search of a teammate. In Wober's desperation to cut out the danger, he inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net.