Deschamps: 'I confirm Spain is the favorite'

Didier Deschamps, the coach of the French national football team, has officially declared Spain as the favorite heading into their World Cup 2026 semifinal clash. Deschamps reiterated his pre-tournament assessment, stating that Spain's performance, apart from their opening match against Cape Verde, has consistently confirmed his belief.

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I confirm that Spain is the favorite. Aside from the first match against Cape Verde, the rest has confirmed what I said.

Speaking at a press conference prior to the match, Deschamps highlighted Spain's formidable capabilities, noting their balanced attack and defense. He pointed out that Spain has conceded a mere single goal across their six matches in the tournament, a testament to their defensive solidity. "It could be a spectacular match, given the quality of both teams and their offensive potential," Deschamps added.

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It could be a spectacular match, given the quality of both teams and their offensive potential.

When questioned about France's previous semifinal defeats in the European Championship and the Nations League, Deschamps dismissed the idea of seeking lessons from those experiences. He stressed that each competition is distinct and carries a different level of intensity. "We are consistent with the quality they possess, which is why they have only conceded one goal, because it is difficult to take the ball away from them. We will see who has the ball. It is no kind of revenge," he stated.

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There are no lessons to be learned, but a truth on the pitch. These are different competitions. It is not the same level of competition.

Deschamps also provided an update on his squad, confirming that Aurelién Tchouaméni, who missed the last two training sessions due to injury, is improving but not yet at 100%. He confirmed that Kylian Mbappé has no issues. Regarding young Spanish talent Lamine Yamal, Deschamps acknowledged his quality but stressed that past performances do not guarantee future success, stating that France also possesses players of high caliber and expects to advance.

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Aurelien did not play the last two matches because the risk was high. He is better, but not 100 percent recovered.