Koné makes his U21s debut, Sommer & Co. lose their first Nations League game

Manu Koné made his debut for France U21s in their 2-0 win over Serbia. Yann Sommer, Nico Elvedi and Breel Embolo lost 2-1 with Switzerland away to Czech Republic.

Manu Koné won his first cap for France U21s on Thursday night. Borussia’s midfielder came on for Eduardo Camavinga in the 73rd minute during their European Championship qualifier against Serbia. His side won 2-0 thanks to goals from Khéphren Thuram (the younger brother of Borussia striker Marcus) and Amine Gouiri.

France are top of Group H after eight matchdays, six points clear of Ukraine, although they have a game in hand. Koné and his teammates could book their place at next year’s European Championship with a win over Armenia on Monday (18:30 CEST).

Sommer: “Czech Republic were really aggressive“

Yann Sommer, Nico Elvedi and Breel Embolo were defeated with Switzerland on Thursday. They lost their first game of their Nations League campaign 2-1 in Czech Republic. Jan Kuchta put the hosts ahead after 11 minutes, before Noah Okafor equaliser in the first half. Jakub Janktos’ cross was then deflected past Sommer by Frankfurt’s Djibril Sow in the second half to give the home team all three points.

“We obviously could have defended both their goals better,” explained Sommer after the game. “They did really well. They were really aggressive and pressed us high up the pitch. We faced a good team.” Coach Murat Yakin named all three Foals in his side, bringing Embolo off late on. Their next game is on Sunday away to Portugal (20:45 CEST).