Deschamps praises Mbappé’s mentality after France reaches World Cup semi-finals

By Sanjay Menon — 10 July 2026 — 3 min read

France coach Didier Deschamps commended the mindset of his players following their 2-0 victory over Morocco in the World Cup quarter-final. The win marks the third consecutive semi-final appearance for the team. Deschamps highlighted the importance of the human aspect in their shared venture, stating that the truth lies on the pitch, but the human element is crucial. He also noted that the situation and conditions are never identical, and the jersey has always been paramount in his life, a sentiment he sees reflected in the current squad.

During the match, Kylian Mbappé scored the opening goal, despite having missed a penalty earlier in the first half. Ousmane Dembélé then secured the win for France six minutes later. Deschamps acknowledged the difficulty of the game, citing the missed penalty and other squandered opportunities. He praised Mbappé, stating that the captain never hesitates, even after missing a chance, and described him as exemplary, countering perceptions that Mbappé is self-centred.

Mbappé was substituted in the 77th minute due to what he later described as a “minor ankle injury.” He reassured that he was “completely fine” and that the substitution was made because another player, Jean-Philippe Mateta, was in a better position to play the remaining minutes. Television footage showed Mbappé with ice on his right foot on the bench, but he was later seen celebrating with his teammates on the pitch after the final whistle. Deschamps also confirmed that the ankle issue was not serious.

Morocco’s perspective on the match

Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi acknowledged the significant difference in quality between his team and France. He observed that France eventually found a comfortable rhythm in the game. Ouahbi had considered making substitutions earlier but decided to wait. He noted that Morocco gained more control at the beginning of the second half and wondered how France would have reacted if they hadn’t scored.

Ouahbi recognised France as a strong team with excellent and talented forwards who demonstrate effort and do not get frustrated. He pointed out their long-standing strength, having reached the last two World Cup finals, and described them as a solid team adept at playing in transition. Before the game, Ouahbi had stressed that Morocco should not be content with reaching the quarter-finals, despite being the first African side to achieve this twice.

He urged a measured response, encouraging his team to identify areas for improvement and move forward. Ouahbi expressed optimism about Morocco‘s young players and federation, crediting their king’s investment for their presence in the tournament. He also suggested the possibility of beating France in the World Cup in four years.

Player injuries and future outlook

Aside from Mbappé’s ankle discomfort, midfielder Manu Koné was also withdrawn from the match due to a knee injury and cramps. However, Mbappé is not expected to be a doubt for the semi-final. Mbappé’s goal in the quarter-final tied him with Lionel Messi‘s eight goals in the race for the World Cup Golden Boot.

Mbappé had previously completed 90 minutes for France in matches against Senegal in the group stage and Paraguay in the round of 16. Coach Deschamps had provided him with precautionary rests during parts of games against Iraq, Norway, and Sweden. France hopes Mbappé will be available for the semi-final.

Source: theguardian.com