Playing with a mask is horrible, says Mbappe

France captain Kylian Mbappe says he finds playing with a mask on “absolutely horrible” as he prepares to lead his side in their Euro 2024 last-16 match with Belgium on Monday.

The 25-year-old striker broke his nose in a collision during his side’s 1-0 win against Austria in their opening game of the tournament.

He missed the goalless draw with the Netherlands but returned and scored as France drew 1-1 with Poland.

Mbappe wore a protective mask in that game but said he found it uncomfortable.

“I didn’t think it would be, but playing with a mask is absolutely horrible,” Mbappe said before the Belgium game in Dusseldorf.

“I have changed [the mask] because every time there was something that wasn’t right.

“It is really difficult. It limits your vision and the sweat gets blocked up so you have to take it off to let it run away.

“As soon as I can take it off I will do, but I don’t have a choice. That is how my tournament is going to be. I can only play like that.

“It is really annoying, but I have to just say thanks to the mask.”