After a 1-1 draw in Dortmund, Didier Deschamps’ team forfeited the top spot in Group D and is now on the incorrect side of the draw.

It was all going so well for France. Their masked man had returned to the starting lineup to give them the lead in Tuesday’s critical Euro 2024 Group D match against Poland. Kylian Mbappe eventually found a way past an inspired Lukasz Skorupski with an impressively composed penalty.

Nevertheless, Dayot Upamecano committed the error that is characteristic of him, which enabled Robert Lewandowski to equalise from the spot on the second attempt with only 11 minutes of normal time remaining.

In an effort to secure the division, France surged forward in the final minutes, in search of the goal that would have secured their victory. Nevertheless, Didier Deschamps’ team was unable to advance, resulting in Les Bleus, the tournament’s top-ranked team, being relegated to the losing side of the quarterfinal stages, along with Spain, Germany, and Portugal.

Defence and Keeper

Mike Maignan (7/10):

He was extremely unfortunate to have his exceptional save from Lewandowski’s initial penalty go unrecognised; however, it is important to note that he had slightly strayed from his intended stance. Additionally, the retry was executed correctly, as it was only able to penetrate the post. Poland had not caused any significant issues.

Jules Kounde (6/10):

The right-back continues to deliver a competent but unremarkable performance, maintaining a straightforward approach while failing to generate any offensive contributions. This is likely the expectation of Deschamps, to be fair.

Dayot Upamecano (4/10):

The Bayern Munich center-back was having a reasonably successful tournament until he conceded a penalty during a typically inept challenge on Swiderski.

William Saliba (7/10):

Obtained a block on Lewandowski’s downward header to atone for his comprehensive loss. Possessing this item is typically quite remarkable. Desires a central defensive companion who is more dependable.

Theo Hernandez (7/10):

Despite squandering a significant opportunity just 10 minutes in, he remained a threat with his dashes down the left flank and in behind the Polish backline.

The area in the middle of

N’Golo Kante (7/10):

This was yet another dynamic performance from the veteran, despite occasional lapses in possession. A goal should have been the result of a spectacular burst from deep, but Demebele squandered his through-ball. After Mbappe broke the deadlock, he was granted a well-deserved respite. However, it is possible that he should have been left on.

Aurelien Tchouameni (6/10):

Until his late departure, he effectively safeguarded the back four. His strength was such that at one point, not even Lewandowski could push him off the ball.

Adrien Rabiot (4/10):

In Qatar, he is one of France’s most talented players; however, he has yet to ignite his career in Germany. On the hour, withdrawal was made after a commendable defensive performance, but there was little else to report. His starting position must be in jeopardy.

 Assault

Ousmane Dembele (7/10):

An evening that truly encapsulated the enigma of Dembele. The winger was a constant threat and earned the penalty with a brilliant burst into the area. However, he squandered France’s best opportunity in the first half and his final pass repeatedly let him down. A talent that is so aggravating.

Kylian Mbappe (7/10):

The game appeared to have been won for his country when he eventually defeated Skorupski from the penalty spot to score his first Euros goal. However, he will be disappointed with his finishing, despite the fact that he appeared alert throughout. The question that must be posed is whether it would be advantageous for both him and France to have Mbappe on the left wing and a proper center-forward playing through the middle.

Bradley Barcola (7.5/10):

Despite having just summoned Skorupski to action following a scintillating break down the right flank, he was abruptly withdrawn after 60 minutes. Additionally, he had twice formed a dazzling partnership with Mbappe to generate opportunities for his captain during the first half. Is entitled to maintain his starting position in the final 16.