Kylian Mbappé openly questioned Didier Deschamps’ tactical approach after France’s 2-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal, admitting Les Bleus’ failed both technically and tactically as their hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final came to an end.
Spain controlled much of the contest, with Rodri and Fabián Ruiz dominating midfield as Mikel Oyarzabal’s first-half penalty and a second goal secured a deserved victory for the reigning European champions.
“We were three against two in midfield and against Spain, that’s hard,” Mbappé said after the match. “Fabián and Rodri had plenty of time to play. There was a lack of communication in the press. I think we should have gone man-to-man and forced them to run with us.”
The France captain admitted his side never executed their intended game plan of pressing Spain high to disrupt their rhythm.
“We didn’t play the game we wanted, technically or tactically,” he said. “When you don’t do what you have to do in a World Cup semifinal, you don’t win. Spain respected their game plan, while we couldn’t stop them from controlling the game.”
Mbappé also pointed to France’s poor ball retention after regaining possession, saying sloppy first touches repeatedly handed the initiative back to Spain.
“Even when we recovered the ball, our first touches were not good enough. It is a huge disappointment, but objectively, we didn’t put all the ingredients together to reach the final.”
Substitutions made by Deschamps in the second half failed to change the momentum, with France unable to create a meaningful comeback.
Substitute, Rayan Cherki echoed Mbappé’s disappointment, admitting Spain deserved the victory despite believing France had the stronger squad.
“They were better than us in every part of the game and hungrier than us,” Cherki said. “Even on an off day, we have to be better technically, tactically and in our desire. Today, we were missing everything.”
Mbappé’s frustration was evident late in the match when he collided with Spain goalkeeper, Unai Simón while attempting to pressure him, receiving a yellow card in the 86th minute.
“As the captain, I take full responsibility,” Mbappé said. “We wanted to reach the final, but we didn’t.”
France will now face the loser of the Argentina-England semifinal in Saturday’s third-place playoff in Miami Gardens, while Spain advance to the World Cup final.
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
