Didier Deschamps stands on the brink of history. If France defeat Spain in the World Cup semi-final on Tuesday and then win the final, he will become the first manager ever to lift the trophy three times. He already won it as a player in 1998 and as a coach in 2018, a double achieved only by Franz Beckenbauer and Mario Zagallo. Vittorio Pozzo is the only other manager to win twice (1934 and 1938).
Record-Breaking Match on Bastille Day
Tuesday's match will be Deschamps' 26th World Cup game in charge of France, a new record. The occasion falls fittingly on Bastille Day, France's national holiday. Deschamps has led Les Bleus to three consecutive semi-finals, a feat matched only by Germany (1966-1974) and Brazil (1994-2002). His overall World Cup record as coach stands at 20 wins, three draws, and just two losses—against Germany in 2014 and a dead-rubber group match against Tunisia in 2022.
From 'Water Carrier' to Serial Winner
As a player, Deschamps was labelled a 'water carrier' by Eric Cantona for his defensive midfield role, but he captained France to World Cup and European Championship glory. After a disastrous 2010 World Cup campaign, he took over a fractured team in 2012 and rebuilt its reputation. Under his guidance, France reached the 2014 quarter-finals, won the 2018 World Cup, and reached the 2022 final, losing to Argentina on penalties.
Thierry Henry, speaking on Fox Sports, said: 'It's not luck. This guy is a serial winner. And that's about it. I can also tell you how hard it is to have a lot of alphas and make sure that only one will be the alpha.'
Attacking Freedom Under Deschamps
In previous tournaments, France were often pragmatic and dour, but this summer they have played with newfound freedom. The attacking quartet of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, and Desire Doue has thrilled. France have conceded just two goals in six matches, none in the knockout stages, while creating far more chances. In the quarter-final against Morocco, they dominated with a sustained, inventive onslaught, winning 2-0 but hitting the target eight times.
Deschamps said: 'My credit goes to the players but maybe I do my job well.'
Mbappe's Leadership Vindicated
Deschamps made Mbappe captain after Hugo Lloris retired in January 2023, a decision that sparked debate. Mbappe has justified the choice with his performances and handling of the media. He said: 'The best way to pay tribute to him is to win, because he loves winning. So we're going to do everything we can to make sure he has the best possible World Cup.'
After the Morocco win, Mbappe added: 'I've been world champion and I've been runner-up, and this team is neither one nor the other. This is a team that we can dream with.'
Deschamps will step down after the tournament, with Zinedine Zidane expected to replace him. A third World Cup title would be a fitting farewell.
