Deschamps questions referee level after World Cup exit

Yesterday, French national team coach Didier Deschamps voiced serious doubts about the refereeing after France’s World Cup exit at the hands of Spain. He made the comments in an interview with , noting the disappointment that followed the 23:52 match. Deschamps also conceded that Spain was the better side on the night, acknowledging the Spanish team's superiority in the semi‑final. He described the French performance as below the technical level required for a World Cup knockout. Spain will now meet the winner of the other semi‑final between England and Argentina in the final, setting up a clash with either the English or Argentine side. This information frames the upcoming championship match.

Scorching Dallas heat tests Mbappé as France eye World Cup semi‑final

"The refereeing? If I say something about it, I will come across as a sore loser because we lost," Deschamps told . "But I ask you whether the referee has the level to officiate a semi‑final. There is that penalty, but that is not the only thing, there is more." He added that he has nothing against the referee of the night, yet he urges viewers to question the official’s capability to manage such a high‑stakes game. The coach emphasized that the penalty decision was only one of several contentious moments.

Mbappé declared fit for Tuesday semi as Deschamps backs France

Deschamps admitted the French players were devastated and technically not at the required level. He highlighted technical errors, missed passes that could have created chances, and a lack of precision that hampered France’s chances against a Spanish side that showed that extra edge. The 57‑year‑old coach said he prepared the match with the aim of giving everything to reach the end, but the disappointment was great. He praised the Spanish team for being fully in control, noting France missed technical precision and had less energy, while still valuing the good moments the French side displayed.