French football fans experienced a rollercoaster of emotions as Kylian Mbappe suffers a broken nose after a collision with Austrian defender  . The star striker, now captain of Les Bleus has returned to the team's base camp, offering a glimmer of hope for their Euro campaign.

The French Football Federation (FFF) confirmed that Mbappe broke his nose after he was forced off the pitch during the second half of the Austria match. Dr. Franck Le Gall, part of the medical staff, treated Mbappe initially and confirmed the fracture.

Thankfully, surgery won't be necessary for Mbappe's broken nose. However, the coming days are crucial for his recovery. The FFF has revealed plans for a protective mask, allowing Mbappé to potentially return to competition after a period of treatment.

A Setback, Not a Knockout

As Mbappe currently suffers from a broken nose undoubtedly setbacks France's team. His electrifying pace, clinical finishing, and leadership are vital to their title aspirations. However, the positive news lies in avoiding surgery, which could have significantly impacted his tournament participation.

The prospect of a protective mask offers hope for a swift return. Advancements in sports medicine have led to innovative protective gear, allowing athletes to compete even with facial injuries. Goalkeeper Petr Čech's successful career following a skull fracture, aided by a protective mask, serves as a prime example.

The exact timeframe for Mbappe's return with the mask remains unclear. Factors like the fracture's severity, pain tolerance, and his ability to adapt to the mask will determine his return date.

France's Euro Hopes Still Alive

Despite Mbappe suffering a broken nose, France remains a formidable force in Euro 2024. Their squad boasts incredible depth, with world-class attackers like Ousmane Dembele and Antoine Griezmann capable of stepping up in his absence.

Mbappe's potential return, even with a mask, would be a significant boost for France. His mere presence on the field, even with a protective covering, would uplift team morale and pose a constant threat to opposing defenses.

The coming days will be critical for French fans. News on Mbappe's recovery timeline and his ability to play with the mask will be eagerly awaited. This situation highlights the importance of a strong squad in major tournaments.