Against all the odds and pre-match conjecture, it is Spain who progressed to the final of the 2026 World Cup after overcoming France and their fabled forward line with alarming ease in Dallas on Tuesday. It was quite incredible just how routine the 2-0 victory was, with the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele all failing to show up as the tournament favourites bowed out with a whimper.
Kylian Mbappe has taken a public swipe at Didier Deschamps' tactical approach following France's disappointing 2-0 World Cup semi-final exit at the hands of Spain. The Les Bleus captain did not hold back in his post-match assessment, suggests that a lack of communication and a failed pressing triggers allowed La Roja’s midfield to dominate the contest in Arlington.
France's World Cup campaign ended in dismal fashion on Tuesday as Didier Deschamps' side were outclassed by Spain in a 2-0 defeat that saw Les Bleus heroes Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele kept quiet. France failed to register a single shot on target in the first 80 minutes of the semi-final as La Roja progressed at their expense.
Claude Makelele has hailed Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe as the modern-day successor to Ronaldo Nazario, tipping the Frenchman to secure the 2026 Ballon d'Or. The former Los Blancos midfielder believes Mbappe's impact on the world stage puts him in a category of his own among his peers.
Didier Deschamps has confirmed Kylian Mbappe is fit to face Spain in France's World Cup semi-final despite concerns over an ankle problem. The France captain trained separately for part of Monday's session, but his boss insisted the modified workload was only part of his recovery plan ahead of the last-four clash.
Samuel Eto'o has claimed that Kylian Mbappe does not receive the level of appreciation his record-breaking performances deserve in his home country. Despite leading France to the brink of another World Cup final, the legendary striker believes the Real Madrid man is held to a different standard than other icons of the game.
Kylian Mbappe will be relishing France's World Cup semi-final clash with Spain more than most. Not only is this the opportunity to exact revenge for the painful defeat to La Roja at the same stage of Euro 2024 two years ago, but the attacker also has the chance to deliver a rebuttal to his vociferous critics back in Madrid after a tumultuous season at club level. What's more, he comes into the showdown in the form of his life.
Real Madrid are facing a race against time to secure the long-term future of Vinicius Junior as contract negotiations between the club and their star forward reportedly hit a significant stumbling block. The Brazil international, who is currently enjoying a summer break following the World Cup, remains a focal point of the club's plans, but financial disagreements are threatening to overshadow the start of the new campaign.
Michael Olise is reportedly seeking an urgent meeting with Bayern Munich officials to discuss his future following a sensational World Cup campaign that has seen his market value skyrocket. The France international is at a crossroads in Bavaria as interest from Real Madrid continues to intensify behind the scenes.
France fans can breathe a collective sigh of relief as captain Kylian Mbappe appears to be in high spirits despite recent injury concerns. The Real Madrid superstar has been at the centre of an ankle scare following his substitution in the quarter-final victory over Morocco. However, new footage from the French camp suggests the Golden Boot contender is feeling fine ahead of the semi-final showdown with Spain.
Thierry Henry made a surprise appearance in the France dressing room to congratulate the squad following their commanding 2-0 World Cup quarter-final victory over Morocco. The legendary forward shared a warm embrace with captain Kylian Mbappe before glowing about the team's defensive cohesion, though he warned that the job is not yet finished.
Kylian Mbappe admitted he lost focus before missing a penalty against Morocco after a lengthy VAR delay caused confusion over whether the spot-kick would stand. The France captain also played down fears over an ankle knock and insisted he will be ready for the World Cup semi-final.
France manager Didier Deschamps has addressed injury concerns surrounding captain Kylian Mbappe following his late substitution during the World Cup quarter-final victory against Morocco. The Real Madrid forward was withdrawn after picking up an ankle knock, prompting the coaching staff to carefully manage his fitness ahead of the semi-finals.
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