Maximilian Woeber's unfortunate own goal was the deciding factor in France's narrow 1-0 victory over Austria in their Euro 2024 opener on Monday, despite Kylian Mbappe suffering a bloody nose late in the match. Woeber inadvertently turned Mbappe's cross into his own net just seven minutes before halftime in Düsseldorf, helping the French, considered top contenders for the tournament, overcome a challenging Austrian side. Austria, under the guidance of Ralf Rangnick, has shown significant improvement and their aggressive play frequently troubled the 2022 World Cup finalists. Mbappe was forced off the field towards the end after a clash, having earlier missed a chance that could have increased France's lead. Although Les Bleus were not at their peak, they were relieved to secure the win amidst a pre-match focus on political issues rather than football. Mbappe and his teammates had been extensively questioned about upcoming national elections, which could see the far-right National Rally gain prominence. A loss here could have suggested a lack of focus on the competition, as France aims to clinch their third European title, and the first since 2000. The result puts Didier Deschamps' team on equal points with the Netherlands in Group D, who beat Poland 2-1 in Hamburg on Sunday. France and the Netherlands are set to clash in Leipzig on Friday, with Austria taking on Poland in Berlin earlier the same day. Austria entered the tournament on a high, unbeaten in seven games, and with a strong German influence in their squad, including coach Rangnick and eight players from the German Bundesliga. Despite Austria's improvements, France, led by captain Mbappe, arguably boasts the most talented squad in the tournament. Mbappe, now a Real Madrid player, had a disappointing Euros three years ago and will rue his missed opportunities in this match, including a glaring chance within the first eight minutes. Antoine Griezmann and Theo Hernandez set up Mbappe, who failed to beat Austria's goalkeeper Patrick Pentz. Austria had their moments too, with Christoph Baumgartner denied by French goalkeeper Mike Maignan. The decisive moment came when Ousmane Dembele fed Mbappe, whose cross was deflected into the net by Woeber. Mbappe had another chance thwarted by Pentz and later missed a clear opportunity after being set up by Adrien Rabiot. The match remained tense as Austria sought an equalizer, but to no avail. Mbappe's late treatment for a collision with Kevin Danso led to accusations of time-wasting, and he eventually left the field with a bloodied shirt, only to return briefly before being replaced by Olivier Giroud.