France and AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud became the oldest scorer in France’s history as they beat Austria 2-0 to boost their hopes of avoiding Nations League relegation. Les Bleus dominated, with Paris St-Germain star player Kylian Mbappe having an early goal ruled out for offside and Aurelien Tchouameni’s bicycle kick being tipped onto the bar.
Olivier Giroud set up Mbappe for a fine opener, taking on several defenders before firing in from 16 yards. The former Chelsea and Arsenal 35-year-old striker brilliantly headed in France’s second. At 35 years and 357 days, he is 70 days older than Roger Marche was when he scored against Spain in December 1959.
Olivier Giroud is now only two goals behind Thierry Henry’s France record of 51. France, who would have been relegated if they had lost, move above Austria going into Sunday’s Group A1 finale in Denmark. Croatia is currently leading the group following a 2-1 win against Denmark, who would have sealed the top spot themselves had they won in Zagreb.
Defender Borna Sosa put the hosts ahead with his first international goal. Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen levelled with a sensational long-range strike, but two minutes later Lovro Majer scored the winner from outside the box.
Croatia just needs to beat Austria on Sunday to qualify for next year’s finals and book a Euro 2024 play-off place.