The midfielder for France, Aurelien Tchouameni, says he is not concerned about the criticism levelled at his team’s performance at Euro 2024 because, despite their lack of spectacular play, the tournament favourites have secured their spot in the round of 16.

“Some people just want to win, while others want to win and demonstrate their skills. Whether we play well or poorly, my personal goal is to win,” the Real Madrid player stated to reporters on Sunday during France’s training camp in Paderborn.

“Winning and scoring three points is the most important thing because, in the end, I believe, what we will remember most about our careers is not how we played, but what we accomplished.”

The 2022 World Cup runners-up take on Poland in Dortmund on Tuesday in their final Group D match. France has four points after two games after scoring just one goal (an own goal) and maintaining a clean sheet. In their first game, they defeated Austria 1-0 thanks to an own goal from Maximilian Woeber. Later, in Leipzig, they drew 0-0 with the Netherlands while Kylian Mbappe was injured.

Even without Kylian Mbappe, France has a stronger offensive line, but their performances have been more practical and less flashy than they were under Michel Platini. Under Didier Deschamps, Les Bleus have frequently come under fire for not playing more open football. They advanced from the group stage and won the 2018 World Cup, defeating Australia 2-1 in the end owing to a penalty and an own goal, then defeating Peru 1-0 and drew 0-0 with Denmark.

“With this coach, we’ve recently had a lot of success and titles. That is the most crucial element. I am aware that some fans desire to watch a team perform really well. The most important thing to me, even though we may not be the best squad, is that we are the ones that never give up,” Tchouameni remarked.

For France, a draw against eliminated Poland would be sufficient to guarantee second place in the group and a spot in the round of 16. After missing the Netherlands match to heal from a broken nose he sustained against Austria and get used to donning a protective mask, Mbappe may make a comeback. “I believe that everyone is aware of his excitement to play in the upcoming game.”

I believe he’s starting to adjust to wearing the mask. He obviously doesn’t want to wear it, but if you ask the doctor, I believe he’ll tell you there’s nothing else you can do. For him, though, it won’t make a difference. We are aware of the value he adds to the team when he plays.”

Regardless of the outcome of Austria’s other match against the Netherlands, even a loss against Poland would not keep France from progressing to the next round. However, if the Netherlands wins by a bigger margin, a victory could not be sufficient for the French to lead the group.