Kylian Mbappe openly questioned Didier Deschamps' tactical approach after France were eliminated from the World Cup with a 2-0 semi-final defeat to Spain in Dallas. Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro ended France's hopes of reaching a third consecutive final, while the outgoing head coach also criticised the officiating.
Mbappe Criticises Game Plan
Mbappe, who struggled to make an impact with his best chance a free-kick over the bar, suggested France's plan failed to counter Spain's midfield strength. "We were three against two in midfield and against Spain, that's hard. Fabian Ruiz and Rodri had plenty of time to play," he said. "There was a lack of communication on the press. I think we should have done man-to-man press and force them to run with us."
The France captain admitted the team fell short. "We didn't play the game we wanted, technically, tactically. When you don't do what you have to do in a World Cup semi-final, you don't win," he added. "Spain respected their game plan. Our plan was to press them high so they could not install their rhythm. We didn't manage to do it. We were too sloppy technically."
Deschamps Hits Out at Referee
Didier Deschamps, set to leave after the tournament, accepted Spain deserved victory but questioned FIFA's choice of Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton. "Is the referee good enough to officiate a World Cup semi-final?" he asked. He later added, "I'm not going to dwell on it because otherwise I'll sound like a cry-baby. Is the referee up to the standard? That's for you to decide."
Despite the criticism, Deschamps conceded the main reason for defeat was France's performance. "The main reason is that we were a bit below par and less dangerous offensively than we could have been. We made a few technical errors and missed passes," he said.
Cherki: Spain Deserved Win
Midfielder Rayan Cherki acknowledged Spain's superiority. "They were better in every aspect of the game. They wanted it more than we did," Cherki said. "I am convinced that we are the better team, but this afternoon they were superior. They were better than us tactically, better positioned."
