The key figure behind France’s semi-final triumph over Morocco in 2022, Antoine Griezmann, observed from the stands as Les Bleus cruised past the Atlas Lions to secure a spot in their third consecutive World Cup semi-final.
The 35-year-old recently joined Orlando City and had not attended a France match since his international retirement in 2024 after a brief tenure as vice-captain.
After Hugo Lloris stepped down following the previous World Cup, many expected Griezmann to be named captain, given his loyalty to Didier Deschamps. However, in a highly debated decision, the head coach awarded the armband to Kylian Mbappé instead.
At the time, the choice to appoint the then 24-year-old captain sparked national discussion. Griezmann candidly admitted that being passed over for the role after nearly a decade had been difficult to accept.
Fast forward three years, and as Mbappé propelled France into another World Cup semi-final with a goal—his eighth of the tournament—in the 2-0 victory against Morocco, any doubts about his captaincy have largely faded. Now at 27, he has fully embraced a comprehensive leadership role while continuing to excel in scoring.
Mbappé’s seniority has emerged as a notable theme during this World Cup, being one of only two players in the current squad with prior experience in two previous tournaments, alongside Ousmane Dembélé. N’Golo Kanté and Lucas Hernandez, the other two World Cup champions in the squad, were unable to participate in Qatar due to injuries.
In his media engagements throughout this World Cup, Mbappé has emphasized the importance of the experience he has gained from past tournaments. As France’s journey in the United States draws parallels with earlier French squads, he aims to provide perspective.
“I’ve been world champion and I’ve been runner-up, and this team is neither one nor the other,” he said after the win over Morocco, before departing the Boston Stadium. “As it stands it’s not the best team I’ve played in, but it might be the one with the most potential, the one with which we can look to the future more easily. This is a team that we can dream with, although the best teams are those who win.”
His cautious viewpoint reflects his experiences within star-studded French lineups during past tournaments. The French team entered Euro 2020 boasting a forward line featuring Mbappé, Griezmann, and Karim Benzema, a trio that L’Équipe described as “the envy of every country” before the tournament, only to face an unexpected exit against Switzerland.
“We’re well aware of the potential of this team, but that’s not what wins you matches,” Mbappé remarked. “We’re confident when we step out on to the pitch, but we still have to prove ourselves before being called invincible, or whatever superlative you want to use.”
Despite a tarnished reputation at home following a contentious departure from Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappé’s support remains unwavering whenever he dons the France jersey.
His ability to navigate opposing defenses, manage media attention—both favorable and critical—and fulfill leadership responsibilities has reinforced Deschamps’ decision three years ago. The 27-year-old has embraced his role as a mentor to the newer members of the team.
One aspect of his mentorship is the respect he insists his teammates show towards the World Cup, regarded as the pinnacle of football. “As a player, nothing is bigger than playing in the World Cup. We’re well aware of that and we’re trying to get that across to the younger players,” he stated on Thursday evening. Few can underscore this better than Mbappé, who has now scored 20 goals in 20 World Cup matches.
“This country has a history in the World Cup,” he continued, almost solemnly. “They need to know about it, and know the pressure that comes with playing for France.”
France has remained resilient under the mounting pressure, with their status as tournament favorites only strengthening in recent weeks. As they prepare for their semi-final in Dallas, Mbappé is determined to ensure his younger teammates maintain composure to realize the potential he envisions.
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