Chris Sutton launched a blistering critique of Ousmane Dembele after France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain, describing the forward as 'dreadful' and claiming Spain gave the tournament favourites 'a football lesson'.
Spain's dominant display
France entered the match as favourites to reach a third successive World Cup final, having impressed throughout the tournament in the United States. However, they were outplayed by European champions Spain, who took control from the first half.
Mikel Oyarzabal put Spain ahead midway through the first half after Lamine Yamal won a penalty following a late tackle from Lucas Digne. Didier Deschamps would have expected his side to improve after a poor first half, but France were left with a mountain to climb when Pedro Porro scored Spain's second with half an hour remaining.
France finished the game with one of the most dazzling attacks ever assembled, including Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, but were unable to breach Spain's goal as they exited the World Cup at the semi-final stage.
Sutton's scathing assessment
Ex-England striker Sutton was shocked by France's sluggish performance in Dallas and singled out former Ballon d'Or holder Ousmane Dembele for particular criticism.
'Ousmane Dembele has been sensational at this World Cup, but tonight it looks like he has got his boots on the wrong feet,' Sutton said on BBC Radio 5 Live. 'He has been dreadful, he's had a stinker. I cannot remember him playing as poorly as this.'
Sutton also highlighted the overall disparity between the two sides: 'France had their worst half of the tournament and Spain were deservedly in front. Spain have proved they are the best team on the ball and the best team out of possession. They work so hard out of possession. France needed to be braver on the ball in the middle of the park. Spain are pressing them, and they were the more aggressive team.'
Regarding Kylian Mbappe's performance, Sutton noted: 'When you think about how impotent Kylian Mbappe has been… he hardly had a touch of the ball. It was stunning from Spain. They are making the French look like fools popping the ball around them. Spain gave France a football lesson.'
Spain's path to the final
Spain were good value for their win and will be favourites to win the World Cup final, regardless of whether England or Argentina join them in Sunday's showpiece event. The victory marks a significant achievement for a Spanish side that has impressed throughout the tournament with their possession-based style and defensive solidity.
