Belgium Apologise to Kylian Mbappe Over Amadou Onana Video Ahead of Euro 2024 Clash

• Belgium have issued a public apology to Kylian Mbappe following a video by one of their players, Amadou Onana
• In the video, Onana seemed to promise that he will kick the France forward in the shin when they meet at Euro 2024
• Belgium play France on July 1 in a highly-anticipated clash for a chance to qualify for the Euro 2024 quarter-finals

Belgium have issued an apology to France captain Kylian Mbappe over a now-deleted video featuring their midfielder, Amadou Onana.

The apology came barely 24 hours before the two teams squared off in a Round of 16 clash at Euro 2024 in Dusseldorf on July 1.

What did Amadou Onana say about Mbappe?

The said video, which elicited sharp reactions from the public, featured Belgian comedian Pablo Andres asking, ‘Who will kick Mbappe’s shin?’

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Onana then joyfully responds, ‘Onana, Amadou Onana!’

Following public outrage, the Belgian FA pulled down the video and apologised to the new Real Madrid striker. The federation’s media spokesperson, Stefan van Loock, clarified that it was a joke gone wrong.

“It was not the intention to attack anyone. The video was intended to be humorous but has since been taken offline. We would like to apologise to anyone we may have offended with this. For us, this is the end of the matter,” he said, as quoted by BBC Sports.

Mbappe responds to Amadou Onana’s video

In his pre-match conference, Mbappe addressed the issue, insisting he had no problem with the Everton star. The 25-year-old recently suffered a broken nose and is aware that he might become a target for opposition players.

Les Bleus qualified for the Round of 16 by finishing second in Group D behind Austria, while Belgium were second in Group E behind Romania. The winner of this clash faces the winner of Portugal against Slovenia.

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Mbappe forced into unexpected mask change

Sports Brief has also reported that Mbappe has made a mask change ahead of the Belgium game.

The former PSG forward has been forced to play with a mask in Germany since breaking his nose in the opening game against Austria.

The mask has impacted his vision, with Mbappe said to trial out a thinner version in training ahead of facing the Red Devils.