Mbappe gives Zidane winning start before leaving with knee injury

Kylian Mbappe scored the decisive goal before leaving with a suspected knee injury as France defeated Turkey 1-0 in the UEFA Nations League on Friday, giving new coach Zinedine Zidane a winning start. Mbappe, deployed on the left wing rather than through the middle, scored his 67th international goal in the second half. Michael Olise supplied the pass, and the Real Madrid forward controlled it before shooting low into the near corner.

The France captain grimaced during the celebration and received treatment. He tried to continue, but later went to ground while appearing to examine the outside of his left knee. He was replaced by Desire Doue.

France and Real Madrid will await further information on the injury. France have three more fixtures scheduled over the next 10 days before club football resumes, beginning with a visit to Brussels to play Belgium on Monday. Zidane’s first match since his appointment in late July was overshadowed by Mbappe’s departure.

The former France international and 1998 World Cup winner has returned to elite coaching after leaving Real Madrid in 2021. France also came close through Olise, whose first-half effort was tipped over by Turkey goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir. Mike Maignan saved an attempt from Abdulkerim Bardakci after half-time, while Jules Kounde later struck the post.

Turkey finished with 10 men after Cakir was sent off following a VAR review. The goalkeeper had handled outside his area while stopping France substitute Bradley Barcola from running through on goal. Turkey, coached by Vincenzo Montella, next host Italy, while Zidane’s first home match will be against the Italians next Friday.