Gary Lineker has strongly criticised FIFA for denying France's request to wear black armbands as a mark of respect for manager Didier Deschamps' mother, who passed away last week. Deschamps missed France's 4-1 victory over Norway on Friday to attend his mother's funeral, with assistant Guy Stephan taking charge.
FIFA Blocks Tribute Despite Norway's Gesture
Norway presented Stephan with a bouquet of flowers as a condolence gesture, but FIFA refused France's request for players to wear black armbands during the match. Lineker, covering the tournament for The Rest Is Football, told L'Équipe: 'The loss of his mother is a tragedy. It's truly sad, and I still can't believe FIFA didn't allow the players to wear black armbands.'
France Advances to Knockout Stages
Under Stephan's guidance, France secured a third consecutive Group I victory, topping the group with wins over Senegal (3-1), Iraq (3-0), and Norway. Ousmane Dembele scored a hat-trick, and Desire Doue added a fourth, while Thelo Aasgaard pulled one back for Norway. France will face Sweden on Tuesday, June 30.
Lineker Also Criticises Madibo Suspension
Lineker has been vocal during the World Cup, also criticising FIFA's five-match suspension of Qatar's Assim Madibo for a tackle that broke Canada's Ismael Kone's leg. Lineker called the ban 'nonsense' and 'absurd' on social media, arguing the challenge was accidental. Kone underwent successful surgery and will miss the remainder of the tournament.
