We were second best, France coach concedes after chastening World Cup loss

July 15, 2026 8:45 AM

We were second best, France coach concedes after chastening World Cup loss

The end of coach Didier Deschamps' Midas-like reign turned into a Tantalus torment as France suffered a comprehensive World Cup semi-final defeat by Spain, but Les Bleus' recent heartbreaks will not tarnish an unprecedented legacy. France lost the 2022 World Cup final to Argentina and have now fallen to Spain in three straight major semi-finals, at Euro 2024, the Nations League and Tuesday's 2-0 World Cup defeat. Yet Deschamps, who took charge in 2012 with French football still scarred by thei...

France ready to fight Spain for midfield control in World Cup semi-final

July 14, 2026 12:03 PM

France ready to fight Spain for midfield control in World Cup semi-final

France will not willingly surrender possession to Spain in Tuesday’s World Cup semi-final, coach Didier Deschamps said, with Aurelien Tchouameni available again as the teams prepare for a potentially decisive battle in midfield. Spain have built their run to the last four around their ability to dominate the ball, press opponents deep into their own half and control the rhythm of matches. France possess the pace to hurt them on the break, but Deschamps rejected the idea that his side would b...