It was a time of relief for Didier Deschamps on Thursday after the Blues’ big victory against Ukraine (4-0). Because this time, the French team will see America clearly. Thanks to this success, the world vice-champions have indeed validated their ticket for the American World Cup.
The former midfielder, scarred by the tragedy of November 17, 1993 against Bulgaria, could take a breather. “We must not trivialize a qualification for the French team. I’m not a big expressive person, I admit, especially here, but it’s a lot of pride and I appreciate it. You have to appreciate these moments because we will be there. Especially since I didn’t have the opportunity to see America when I was a player,” he said at a press conference.
If the Blues won, it is notably thanks to Kylian Mbappé. The Madrilenian scored a double and delivered an assist for Hugo Ekitike. Enough to satisfy his coach. “He exudes happiness, you can see it, you can feel it even if, like any player, he has had a slightly more complicated period. I always told you that the French team would always be stronger with Kylian. When he is at that level, for the opponents, it’s complicated and that makes things easier for us,” he said.
Kylian Mbappé perfect in his role as captain
“He is extremely decisive as he is with his club, he continued. The season is long, he plays a lot, he is good, he stays like that but there is… – this is valid for him and other players – the accumulation means that. Today, he played his role perfectly on and off the field as captain of the French team. »
“When he had to take over, he did it very well, he added again about his captaincy.
Beyond the player, he has this ability to unite between the youngest and the oldest. He fully assumes this role of captain and leader. He listened, he learned, it’s not necessarily a question of doing like the others but that’s Kylian. »
