Aurelien Tchouameni: 'We are definitely ashamed as a team'

Aurelien Tchouameni admitted that the French team felt ashamed following their performance in the World Cup third-place playoff, particularly after a disappointing first half. The 26-year-old midfielder acknowledged that the team failed to perform at their usual standard.

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We know we didn't play at our level, we weren't showing what was required, and it could have been even worse.

"We know we didn't play at our level, we weren't showing what was required, and it could have been even worse," Tchouameni stated. He highlighted the impact of coach Didier Deschamps' halftime talk, describing it as "extraordinary" and credited it with refocusing the players for the second half, which saw an improved performance.

Despite the improved second-half showing, the team could not secure a victory. Tchouameni expressed the collective disappointment, noting the team's desire to win for Deschamps in his final match as coach. "We all wanted to give him a victory in his last match, but it didn't happen. As a result, we are disappointed. We wanted to win the World Cup. I believe our team has that capacity," he said.

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We all wanted to give him a victory in his last match, but it didn't happen. As a result, we are disappointed. We wanted to win the World Cup. I believe our team has that capacity.

Tchouameni also lauded Deschamps' significant impact on French football, emphasizing his legacy as a winner. "He has left an indelible mark. The way he leaves the team is very special. Much has changed. He is a winner. We will preserve his legacy and victories," Tchouameni remarked. He expressed confidence that the team, under a new coach, will continue to develop and achieve further success.

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He has left an indelible mark. The way he leaves the team is very special. Much has changed. He is a winner. We will preserve his legacy and victories.