FIFA World Cup 2026: Didier Deschamps urges France to stay attacking ahead of knockout stage
New York, June 30
France coach Didier Deschamps has urged his team to stay focused on their attacking strengths while cutting out defensive lapses, insisting they must aim to score more goals rather than settle or lose confidence in their abilities.
He also admitted France have conceded too many chances but stressed that every game brings a different scenario.
Deschamps added that France have proven in the past they can succeed with their attacking quality and said he wants the team to continue using that as their biggest strength.
"We have to score one more goal, not give up what we're capable of doing," France coach Didier Deschamps told a press conference as per Reuters.
"We've conceded a few too many chances. Every match has a different scenario. Can you succeed like that? We did it four years ago. We have the ability to create danger and hurt the opposition. That's our strength, and I want us to keep that strength."
Rabiot acknowledged that tactical adjustments may be required as the two-time world champions progress deeper into the tournament, but insisted he does not believe the team has been dangerously unbalanced during the group stage.
"I didn't think there was a huge imbalance in terms of chances created and goals conceded," he said.
France head into the knockout rounds as one of the favourites to lift the trophy, but Rabiot stressed that the squad has taken lessons from their painful last-16 exit to Switzerland at Euro 2020 and will not underestimate Sweden.
"That experience helps us. Those who were there pass it on to the rest of the group," Rabiot said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting from Deschamps. He's right that France won playing attacking football in 2018, but football has evolved. The game against Sweden will be tough - they're tactically very disciplined. I hope France don't become too overconfident. Switzerland at Euro 2020 should be a lesson.
As a football fan from India, I follow every World Cup closely. France is stacked with talent - Mbappe, Griezmann, Tchouaméni - but defensive organisation will be key in knockout matches. Deschamps is right to keep faith in attack, but he can't ignore the defence. Sweden knows how to counter-attack beautifully.
I think Rabiot's comments about not being "unbalanced" are a bit naive. Yes, France created chances, but they also conceded plenty. Against a team like Brazil or England in the quarters, those mistakes will be punished. Deschamps needs to find a balance.
I love how Deschamps is motivating the team! "Score one more goal than the opponent" - that's the spirit! 💪 France has the firepower, and if they can tighten up just a little, they'll go far. Can't wait to see Mbappe in action in the knockout stages 🏆
Deschamps is a world-class manager, but sometimes he's too rigid. Yes, attack is France's strength, but you can't just ignore the problems at the back. The midfield needs to shield the defence better. Rabiot himself could do more defensive work. Sweden will be a real test.
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