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Zidane Says Taking Charge of His First France Game Feels ‘Even More’ Special than His Playing Debut – WTOP News

Mbappé scored his 67th France goal before leaving with a left-knee injury, and Zidane’s debut ended with medical tests pending.

  • France head coach Zinedine Zidane began his tenure with a 1-0 victory over Turkey on Friday in their UEFA Nations League opener, with captain Kylian Mbappé scoring the decisive goal in the 56th minute in Izmit.
  • The 54-year-old manager succeeded former teammate Didier Deschamps in July, ending a 14-year reign after Deschamps led France to the 2018 World Cup title. Zidane had waited years for the opportunity to manage his country.
  • Emphasizing attacking football, Zidane introduced Manchester City playmaker Rayan Cherki to the starting XI, signaling a tactical shift from the defensive-heavy Deschamps era. France controlled possession and created early chances, reflecting the new philosophy.
  • France's victory was tempered when captain Kylian Mbappé sustained a knee injury while scoring. Zidane confirmed Mbappé will return to Madrid for treatment, ruling him out of the next three Nations League matches.
  • Les Bleus travel to Brussels to face Belgium on Monday before hosting Italy at the Stade de France on October 2. These fixtures will test Zidane's tactical system early in his tenure.
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Kylian Mbappé wanted to, but he couldn't play any more. Shortly after the goal for the 1-0 victory in Turkey he has to leave the course. Coach Zinédine Zidane sounds less optimistic.

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After marking the only win against Turkey, he left the pitch after hyperextended his left knee.

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This article was first published via Cedarnews.net. To follow up on more news and exclusive reports, visit us on our website. Jakarta - Zinedine Zidane mengawali kiprahnya sebagai pelatih times nasional Prancis dengan manis usai Les Bleus meraih kemenangan 1.0 atas Turki pada laga. This news was published via Cedarnews News News. For more breaking news and exclusive reports, visit our official website.

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France coach Zidane's first win soured by star's injury

France have held off a persistent Turkey but the win may have come at a cost with Kylian Mbappe limping off after scoring the winning goal.

·Osborne Park, Australia
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football-addict broke the news on Sunday, September 20, 2026.
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