France player ratings: Mbappé exemplary, Olise intermittent, Konaté-Gusto calamitous

The French national football team endured a dismal performance against England in a 2026 World Cup fixture, resulting in a significant loss and widespread criticism of the players' efforts. The article details individual player ratings, highlighting a generally poor showing from the squad.

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He had a nightmare with four goals conceded in the first half, without having much to reproach himself for. Before being decisive after halftime.

Goalkeeper Mike Maignan faced a difficult match, conceding four goals in the first half. Despite the scoreline, he was noted for making crucial saves in the second half, offering some resilience. However, the defense struggled significantly throughout the game.

Defenders Malo Gusto and Ibrahima Konaté were singled out for particularly poor performances. Gusto, making his World Cup debut, was criticized for his lack of aggression and defensive lapses, culminating in conceding a penalty in the 85th minute that further sealed his team's fate. Konaté was described as heavy, technically weak, and unable to command the defense, contributing to the opposition's goals.

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Starter for the first time at the World Cup, he was slow to close down Rice on the opening goal. Lacking aggression, nonchalant in his retreats, he had a calamitous first half, like his teammates. In the second half, during France's strong period, he conceded a penalty that sunk his team. Bad from start to finish.

Both players were substituted, with Konaté being replaced at halftime by Dayot Upamecano, who immediately made an impact with a strong recovery. The article suggests a "shame and then revolt" narrative for the French team, indicating a late surge in effort but ultimately falling short in what was reportedly Didier Deschamps' final match as coach.

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He made great speeches on the eve of the match, charming the audience, but ultimately delivered a calamitous performance. Heavy, technically weak, and unable to be the expected leader in defense, he was overwhelmed. He took ages to get back for the 3rd goal.