In a stunning Euro 2024 semifinal held in Dallas, Spain defeated France 2-1, with Kylian Mbappe's performance drawing sharp criticism from fans and pundits. The match, played on July 9, 2024, saw Spain come from behind after Randal Kolo Muani's early goal for France. Lamine Yamal equalized with a brilliant strike, and Dani Olmo scored the winner.
Mbappe, who had been struggling with a broken nose suffered earlier in the tournament, failed to make a significant impact. Social media erupted with memes and comments, with one user describing his performance as 'a swipe through the thigh,' referencing a penalty incident involving Luka Modric in a previous match.
The Athletic's Thom Harris noted that this was not the first time a penalty was awarded for a swing-and-a-miss clearance, citing Modric's similar incident against England. However, no such penalty was awarded in this match, and the criticism focused on Mbappe's overall play.
Spain advanced to the final, where they faced England, while France's tournament ended in disappointment. The match in Dallas was notable for its high quality and the electric atmosphere in the stadium.
