France’s dream of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final came to an end after a 2-0 defeat to Spain in the semi-final. Following the match, captain Kylian Mbappe accepted responsibility for his team’s failure and admitted that France were also outplayed tactically by their opponents.
According to The Indian Express on Wednesday (July 15), Spain controlled the midfield from the start of the semi-final in Dallas. The impressive partnership between Rodri and Fabian Ruiz, along with Spain’s superior ball possession, left France’s midfield struggling throughout the match.
Speaking after the game, Mbappe said Spain benefited from having numerical superiority in midfield. “We were two against three. Against a team like Spain, that makes things very difficult. Rodri and Fabian Ruiz had a lot of time and space. Our pressing lacked coordination. I think a man-to-man pressing approach could have put them under more pressure,” he said.
The French captain admitted that his team failed to execute their game plan. “Technically and tactically, we were unable to carry out our plans. In a World Cup semi-final, if you cannot implement your strategy, it becomes impossible to win,” he said.
France, who had scored 16 goals in their first six matches of the tournament, also struggled to break down Spain’s well-organized defense. Spain took the lead in the 22nd minute after Lucas Digne conceded a penalty, which Mikel Oyarzabal converted. Early in the second half, Pedro Porro doubled Spain’s advantage with a brilliant strike, effectively ending France’s hopes of a comeback.
French coach Didier Deschamps made several changes in an attempt to turn the match around. Désiré Doué replaced Adrien Rabiot, while Ryan Cherki was later introduced, but neither substitution changed the course of the game.
Accepting responsibility as captain, Mbappe said, “I am the captain of this team, so I take responsibility for this defeat. We wanted to reach the final, but we could not achieve that goal.”
Substitute Ryan Cherki also acknowledged Spain’s superiority. He said Spain performed better in every department and showed greater determination to win. However, he expressed confidence that France would return stronger.
“We were behind technically, tactically and mentally. Nothing worked for us today. We will return in four years and make sure we do not repeat the same mistakes,” Cherki said.
Although France’s World Cup title hopes are over, Mbappe still has a chance for individual recognition. With eight goals, he remains jointly at the top of the Golden Boot race alongside Argentina’s Lionel Messi.
France will play the third-place playoff on Saturday night in Miami Gardens. Their opponents will be the losing side from the second semi-final between Argentina and England.
Source: The Indian Express