Is Kylian Mbappe playing for France vs Belgium in the Euro 2024 round of 16 today?

With France taking on Belgium in the UEFA Euro 2024 round of 16, many wonder whether Kylian Mbappe will play from the get-go in Dusseldorf.

July 01, 2024 11:09AM EDT

**© Clive Mason/Getty Images**Kylian Mbappe wearing mask

France and Belgium will battle it out for a place in the UEFA Euro 2024 quarterfinals when they clash in Dusseldorf today. But the question many are making is whether Kylian Mbappe will play for Les Bleus.

The 25-year-old, who will play for Real Madrid after this European Championship, broke his nose in France’s debut against Austria. After watching the goalless draw against the Netherlands on the bench, he returned to action in the group stage finale against Poland wearing a mask.

Therefore, Mbappe is starting for France against Belgium today, once again with a mask to continue protecting his nose. Even if that’s not so comfortable for the striker.

Kylian Mbappe doesn’t like playing with a mask

“Playing with a mask is an absolute horror. As soon as I can take it off, I’ll take it off. It’s boring! Initially I felt I was in 3D and I’d been invited to the Euros as a VIP. I could see the people but I felt it wasn’t me playing,” Mbappe said at a press conference ahead of the Belgium game.

Kylian Mbappe with the mask.

France’s predicted lineup vs Belgium

With Kylian Mbappe playing from the get-go, coach Didier Deschamps counts on a French squad at full strength to try and seal a place in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals.

What happens if France lose, win or tie with Belgium in Euro 2024 Round of 16?

France’s starting eleven vs Belgium: Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Hernández; Kanté, Tchouaméni, Rabiot, Griezmann; Mbappé, Thuram.

Martín O’Donnell

Martin O'Donnell is a bilingual sports writer fluent in English and Spanish, currently serving as the Managing Editor of Bolavip. He began his journey with the website in February 2021, making a name for himself through comprehensive coverage of multiple sports, including NFL and soccer, with a specialty in original content and real-time reporting of major events such as the World Cup, UEFA Champions League finals, and the Super Bowl. In June 2024, Martin took on the role of Subeditor, where he excelled in overseeing the publication of stories, assisting staff writers, and ensuring content quality. His prior experience includes managing social media for CONMEBOL Libertadores and Sudamericana in English and Spanish, as well as reporting on Brazilian football for Sambafoot. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to capture breaking news, Martin has consistently been a valuable asset to the Bolavip team, especially during crucial sports seasons involving trades, playoffs, and finals. Now, as the Managing Editor since May 2025, Martin brings his extensive experience and keen editorial sense to lead Bolavip’s team, driving the website's growth and ensuring it remains a top source for sports news and analysis with interviews and exclusive content.