Deschamps disappointed with referee's decisions in World Cup semifinal loss

France coach Didier Deschamps admitted his deep disappointment with several refereeing decisions following his team's 0-2 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup semifinals. France had showcased impressive performances throughout the tournament, scoring 16 goals in six matches and drawing comparisons to some of the greatest World Cup teams.

However, Les Bleus' dream of securing a third world title was dashed as they were unable to match Spain's superior play. "Of course, we are very disappointed. The players are heartbroken because we had great ambitions, but at the same time, we have to be realistic," Deschamps stated. "We have to admit that today we were a level below in technical terms compared to the team that controlled the game well."

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Of course, we are very disappointed. The players are heartbroken because we had great ambitions, but at the same time, we have to be realistic. We have to admit that today we were a level below in technical terms compared to the team that controlled the game well.

Despite acknowledging Spain's dominance, Deschamps could not hide his dissatisfaction with the referee from El Salvador, Ivan Barton. He specifically questioned the penalty awarded to Spain after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal in the first half. "I will ask a sensitive question and I will not answer it," Deschamps said, before posing, "Is the referee at the required level to officiate a World Cup semifinal?"

"I am not saying this just because we lost today. There were several situations that occurred. There were also decisions that did not go our way," he added, without elaborating further on the specific incidents.

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I will ask a sensitive question and I will not answer it. Is the referee at the required level to officiate a World Cup semifinal? I am not saying this just because we lost today. There were several situations that occurred. There were also decisions that did not go our way.