Didier Deschamps has expressed that he remains untroubled by the assignment of Argentinian referees for the upcoming World Cup quarter-final between France and Morocco on Thursday, despite the potential for a rematch against Argentina, the 2022 champions. “I trust the referees. Our opponent is Morocco, not the referee.” he stated. “Let’s hope ours are as good as Monsieur Letexier was,”
However, the head coach of France does not naturally embody a diplomatic demeanor. His recent press conference showcased a typically combative attitude, as he spent over 90 seconds at the conclusion explaining why he had no time for an additional question, only to answer it somewhat reluctantly. He could not help but make a comment directed at those, particularly in the North African media, who criticized the performance of French referee François Letexier during the last-16 match between Argentina and Egypt.
“There’s been a certain bitterness for a few years now since the last final, but that’s part of the game,” he remarked. Additionally, he dismissed queries from a Moroccan journalist regarding a penalty that could have been awarded for a foul on Sofiane Boufal during the World Cup semi-final between the two teams in 2022.
Concerns Over Referee Appointments
Integrity has been a prominent topic lately, particularly with Facundo Tello appointed as the referee for the match, flanked by two Argentinian assistants, an Argentinian reserve assistant, and an Argentinian fourth official, which has raised eyebrows. “If these referees are there, it’s because they’re up to the level of the competition.” said Robin Risser, the reserve goalkeeper for France, while attempting to downplay a situation that has sparked debates on social media. “unworthy of your position”
Simultaneously, the aftermath of the intense last-16 victory over Paraguay continues to resonate, as Celeste Amarilla, a senator from Paraguay’s Liberal Radical party, removed social media posts where she directed racial abuse at Kylian Mbappé, whose penalty secured France’s win. She has since called for an apology after Mbappé labeled her “They don’t have the profile of Paraguay,” unworthy of her position. The Paraguayan government and Infantino have condemned Amarilla’s remarks, leading to an investigation by French prosecutors.
Player Conduct and Disciplinary Issues
Despite the tumultuous events, France’s players exhibited commendable restraint during the match against Paraguay. Their federation has also shown discontent regarding the circumstances surrounding USA forward Folarin Balogun’s one-match suspension, which stemmed from a red card for a foul against Bosnia and Herzegovina, being suspended after appealing against a yellow card issued to Michael Olise. The Bayern Munich player received a booking after Matías Galarza, a midfielder from Paraguay, theatrically fell to the ground while clutching his face, despite replays indicating that Olise merely tugged his shirt.
Deschamps confirmed that FIFA upheld the yellow card decision; unlike Balogun’s case, which involved article 27 of the disciplinary code, there was no similar intervention this time, seemingly following Donald Trump’s involvement.
Facing Morocco
The French coach emphasized the formidable challenge posed by Morocco, stating, “We will need to be very effective because this Morocco is of very high quality. The level rises as you climb the mountain. Mindset doesn’t win matches but it can make you lose them.”
As Deschamps is set to depart from his role following this tournament, the quarter-final may mark his final appearance as head coach. “The goal is to do everything to make sure it goes well,” he remarked. “That is the only thing driving me.”
