Mbappe slams France tactics after World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain

France captain Kylian Mbappe has questioned Didier Deschamps’ tactical approach after Les Bleus’ FIFA 2026 World Cup semi-final 2-0 defeat to Spain.

France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final were ended in Dallas as goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro sent the European champions into Sunday’s final.

The defeat also mirrored France’s Euro 2024 semi-final loss to Spain, with Mbappe and his teammates once again unable to overcome La Roja on the big stage.

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The Real Madrid forward, who had enjoyed an outstanding tournament before the semi-final, struggled to influence the contest and acknowledged that France were second best both tactically and technically.

“We didn’t play the game we wanted, technically, tactically. When you don’t do what you have to do in a World Cup semi-final, you don’t win,” Mbappe said.

The 27-year-old appeared to question Deschamps’ tactical setup, particularly France’s midfield structure and pressing strategy against Spain.

“We were three against two in midfield, and against Spain, that’s hard. Fabian Ruiz and Rodri had plenty of time to play,” he said.

“There was a lack of communication in the press. I think we should have gone man-to-man and forced them to run with us.”

Mbappe admitted Spain successfully imposed their possession-based style while France failed to disrupt their rhythm.

“Spain respected their game plan and what the team usually does. They like to control the ball and the tempo. Our plan was to press them high so they could not install their rhythm.”

“Because they are better than us at controlling a game, we didn’t manage to do it. We were too sloppy technically. We could not hurt them when we had the chance.”

The France captain also lamented his team’s inability to make the most of possession after regaining the ball.

“Even when we recovered the ball, our first touches were not good enough. That leads to defeat.”

“It is a huge disappointment. But if we are objective, we didn’t put all the ingredients together to reach the final.”

Despite the semi-final disappointment, France still have one match left at the tournament. Deschamps’ side will face the loser of Wednesday’s semi-final between England and Argentina in Saturday’s third-place playoff as they seek to finish the FIFA 2026 World Cup on a positive note.