Kylian Mbappe conceded that France failed to meet the standards required for a World Cup final after their semi-final exit, criticising the team’s technical and tactical performance.
The French captain was blunt in his assessment of the loss. “We did not do what it takes to reach the dream, to reach the World Cup final,” he said.
Mbappe highlighted shortcomings from the outset. “What we did tonight was unworthy of a World Cup semi-final. We failed technically, and tactically,” he added. “Even when we won the ball back, our moves and our touches were unworthy of the World Cup semis.”
He pointed to specific issues in their pressing game. “From the start, we went into the press with 3 players against 2. We messed up,” Mbappe explained, contrasting it with their approach against Spain. “Vs Spain, you need to press 1v1.”
Despite the disappointment, Mbappe’s comments reflect a frank acknowledgment of France’s shortcomings on the biggest stage. The team will now turn their focus to the third-place play-off.
