Mbappe Goal Gives France Victory as Zidane Era Begins With a Win

Zinedine Zidane’s long-awaited debut in the France dugout began with victory as the reigning European side beat Turkey 1–0 in the UEFA Nations League.

Kylian Mbappe scored the decisive goal in the 54th minute, giving Zidane a winning start in his first match as France head coach.

A member of France’s 1998 World Cup-winning squad, Zidane had long dreamed of eventually leading the national team from the touchline after ending his illustrious playing career. That opportunity finally arrived against Turkey.

His players made sure the occasion became even more memorable.

France dominated possession and created several attacking opportunities before finally breaking the deadlock shortly after half-time. Michael Olise provided the assist, sending the ball into Mbappe’s path before the Real Madrid forward finished clinically to make it 1–0.

Mbappe, however, could not celebrate for long. The France captain appeared to suffer a problem with his leg immediately after scoring and was eventually forced off before the final whistle.

Before leaving the pitch, though, he had already done enough to secure victory for his new coach.

France had chances to extend their lead. In the 78th minute, substitute Bradley Barcola saw his effort denied after Turkey goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir produced an excellent save.

Five minutes later, Turkey were reduced to 10 men. Cakir came outside his penalty area to deal with the ball and handled it, prompting a VAR review. The referee subsequently showed the goalkeeper a red card.

Turkey continued to push for an equaliser despite being a man down. They created several late chances, but France goalkeeper Mike Maignan, the defence and the goalpost all stood between them and a comeback.

In the end, Mbappe’s second-half strike was enough.

For Zidane, it was the perfect beginning to his long-awaited France coaching chapter—a debut victory secured by one of the country’s biggest stars.