Captain Cleared Ahead of Blockbuster Semifinal
France coach Didier Deschamps has put any Mbappé fitness fears to rest. Speaking Monday in Dallas, he confirmed his captain is fully fit for Tuesday’s semifinal against Spain. Mbappé had limped off late in France’s quarterfinal win over Morocco, prompting understandable concern. However, training sessions since then have eased those worries completely.
Deschamps also addressed Aurélien Tchouaméni’s fitness, noting the midfielder has recovered from his groin issue and is now available. He stopped short of calling Tchouaméni fully cured, though, choosing caution over certainty.
Turning to the bigger picture, Deschamps stuck firmly to his season-long stance. Spain, he insisted, remain the clear favorites heading into Tuesday’s clash at AT&T Stadium. Despite France’s blistering form and superior goal tally this tournament, he pointed to Spain’s defensive record as the deciding factor. Only one goal conceded all tournament speaks volumes, he argued, especially paired with their attacking output.
No Added Pressure, Deschamps Insists
Careful not to stir unnecessary tension, Deschamps was quick to clarify his intentions. He isn’t trying to burden Luis de la Fuente’s squad with extra expectation. Rather, he’s simply stating what the numbers already show. Spain’s only stumble came in a goalless draw against Cape Verde, and everything since has reinforced their status as tournament frontrunners.
Even so, Deschamps expects fireworks. Given both sides’ attacking quality, he predicts a spectacular contest rather than a cagey affair. De la Fuente, for his part, brushed off the favorites tag entirely, insisting external pressure changes nothing for his squad.
Fans can follow build-up and analysis for every knockout fixture on the KCPredict blog. Additional quotes from Monday’s press conference are available via France24.