Didier Deschamps is not a man who gives much away. So when France's head coach walks into a press conference and volunteers the word 'spectacular' to describe what's coming on Tuesday, it's worth paying attention.
Asked about France's World Cup semifinal against Spain, Deschamps didn't hedge. According to ESPN FC, he predicted a 'spectacular game' — the kind of language that, from a coach who usually communicates in careful, measured increments, lands with a bit of weight.
What he was less forthcoming about was France's standing in the tournament. Questions about whether Les Bleus are favourites were deflected with the practised ease of a man who has been doing this long enough to know that answering them only creates problems. He's been in enough finals to understand that the favourites label is a gift you hand to the opposition.
France against Spain at a World Cup semifinal stage is the kind of fixture that doesn't need much selling. Two of the most decorated international programmes in the modern era, two squads loaded with Champions League regulars, and a recent history between them — including Spain's Nations League final win over France in 2021 — that gives the game genuine edge.
Spain arrive having played some of the more compelling football of the tournament under their current setup. France, characteristically, have found ways to win without always dazzling. That contrast alone makes Tuesday's game genuinely interesting tactically.
Deschamps deflecting the favourites question is not the same as Deschamps doubting his side. France have been here before — repeatedly — and the coach's refusal to engage with external narratives is less false modesty than it is tournament discipline.
He called it spectacular. He just didn't say for whom.
Didier Deschamps is not a man who gives much away. So when France's head coach walks into a press conference and volunteers the word 'spectacular' to describe what's coming on Tuesday, it's worth paying attention.
Bronnen
ESPN FC
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“Stays on World Cup — different angle, same beat.”
INTFour of the most storied nations in world football. Two semi-finals. And the very real possibility that a spot kick — one player, one goalkeeper, twelve yards — decides who gets to play for the bigges
“Stays on World Cup — different angle, same beat.”
INTFour of the most storied nations in world football. Two semi-finals. And the very real possibility that a spot kick — one player, one goalkeeper, twelve yards — decides who gets to play for the bigges
