Kante Wins Player Of The Match Award

France Edges Past Austria in Euro 2024 Qualifier Thanks to Own Goal

Kanté Wins Player of the Match Award

Austria Puts Up Resilient Fight, But France's Defense Proves Impenetrable

The Euro 2024 qualifiers continued on Monday afternoon with a highly anticipated matchup between France and Austria. In a hard-fought encounter, France managed to secure a narrow victory thanks to an own goal by Austrian defender Martin Hinteregger.

France controlled much of the possession in the first half, but Austria's defense held firm. The closest France came to scoring in the opening 45 minutes was a shot from Kylian Mbappé that went just wide of the post. Austria had a few chances of their own, but they were unable to capitalize.

The second half saw France continue to press for a goal, and they finally broke through in the 70th minute. A cross from Ousmane Dembélé found its way to Hinteregger, who inadvertently headed the ball into his own net. The own goal proved to be the winning goal, as Austria was unable to find an equalizer.

N'Golo Kanté was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance in central midfield. The Chelsea man was a constant presence in the middle of the park, breaking up Austria's attacks and providing a solid platform for France to build from.

The win moves France to the top of Group H with six points from two matches. Austria, meanwhile, remains in third place with three points. The two teams will meet again in the reverse fixture in September 2023.