France’s forward #10 Kylian Mbappe reacts to his team’s defeat at the end of the 2026 World Cup football tournament semi-final match between France and Spain at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington on July 14, 2026. (Photo by RONALDO SCHEMIDT / AFP)
France captain Kylian Mbappe appeared to question Didier Deschamps’ tactical approach after Les Bleus were beaten 2-0 by Spain in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday.
The defeat ended France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final as Spain outclassed the tournament favourites to book their place in Sunday’s showpiece.
Speaking after the match, Mbappe suggested France got their pressing strategy wrong against Spain’s dominant midfield, which was led by Rodri and Fabián Ruiz.
“We were three against two in midfield and against Spain, that’s hard,” Mbappe said. “Fabian and Rodri had plenty of time to play. 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.”
