Mbappe equalized as the France coach plays catch-up ahead of the semi-final with Spain

Didier Deschamps wasted no time in taking the mental toll on his opponents ahead of France’s World Cup semi-final against Spain at AT&T Stadium. The France manager laid his cards on the table during Monday’s pre-match press conference and was eager to hand the ‘favourites’ label to La Roja despite managing the best team in the world.

“I can confirm that Spain are the favourites,” Deschamps told reporters as he launched into his typical pre-match banter. “I don’t want to put pressure on Luis de la Fuente and his team because he knows people have high expectations from Spain. They know how to attack and defend very well, they have only conceded one goal in seven games.”

While Deschamps has tried to rid his team of external expectations, his most significant tactical support has come in fitness. France captain Kylian Mbappe, who sparked concern after being substituted during the quarter-final win, was given a clean sheet to lead the line on Tuesday.

“Kylian is doing well. He is at 100 percent,” said Deschamps.

“We can’t go over 100. He’s at 100 percent.”

The news comes as a huge relief for Les Bleus, who are nursing a few remaining niggles. Midfielder Aurlien Tchouameni, who sat out the 2-0 quarter-final triumph over Morocco with a hamstring strain, remains unfit but has been cleared to feature in the matchday squad.

EXPECT TO SEE: DESCHAMPS

France were the most explosive attacking side in the competition. Led by the indefatigable Kylian Mbappe, Les Bleus lit up the tournament with a stunning 16 goals in their six matches. Far from playing ugly, safe football, the world number one has systematically dismantled opponents with high-intensity, free-flowing attacking sequences.

In stark contrast, Spain’s run to the semi-finals under Luis de la Fuente has been built on an absolute defensive masterclass. Apart from an opening day goalless draw against the Minnows in Cape Verde, La Roja have choked the life out of opposition attacks, conceding only a single goal in their entire World Cup campaign.

Still, Deschamps insisted the clash in Texas would not be a sterile, gimmicky affair.

“It could be a spectacular game, featuring two teams with great attacking quality,” added the France boss.

“Both sides are focused on defending well, but given the attacking quality of both teams, a spectacular game can be expected.”

The match carries huge historical weight and serves as a second leg of the Euro 2024 semi-final. That night in Munich, Spain recovered from an early goal to beat France 2-1 before going on to lift the trophy. Armed with a fully fit Mbappe and a carefully laid psychological trap, Deschamps will be hoping history does not repeat itself in Dallas.

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Issued by:

Akshay Ramesh

Published on:

Jul 14, 2026 11:29 am IST