FIFA World Cup 2026: "We are all behind coach" Kylian Mbappe on France's emotional support for Deschamps
New York, July 1
France captain Kylian Mbappe led a strong show of unity and support for head coach Didier Deschamps as the national team secured a 1-0 victory over Sweden in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash on Tuesday, according to USA Today.
Following a challenging personal period for Deschamps, who recently returned to the touchline after the death of his mother, the French squad rallied around their coach in an emotional display during the Round of 32 clash.
Mbappe, who scored the opening goal just before halftime, did not celebrate in his usual style. Instead, he immediately ran toward the French dugout, where he was joined by teammates in embracing Deschamps in a gesture of solidarity.
"There are things that are more important than a World Cup, more important than you," Mbappe told reporters, as quoted by USA Today.
"But as I said, it's in this group's DNA to stick together, to really be united. We're all behind the coach, no matter what happens, no matter what's going to happen. We're all behind him, and we wanted him to know he wasn't alone," he added.
Defender Malo Gusto also praised the collective gesture, saying the squad wanted to return the support Deschamps has always shown them and ensure he did not feel alone during a tough period.
"I think that was important," France defender Malo Gusto said in the mixed zone following the game on the moment the team had with Deschamps, as quoted by USA Today.
"I think Kylian did that to support (our) coach, too. It was a tough time for him. It was up to us to return the favour. I think we did really well tonight," he added.
France produced an assured display on Deschamps' return, with Mbappe scoring twice to help Les Bleus advance to the Round of 16, where they will face Paraguay.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, this is heartwarming. Seeing a superstar like Mbappe put aside his own celebration to support his coach shows real character. Deschamps must be going through hell, but knowing the team has his back—that's the bond every sport needs. Scotland could take notes! 😄
As a lifelong football fan in Mumbai, I've seen teams crumble under pressure, but France's unity is something else. Dhoni used to say "captain cool," but Mbappe showed true leadership here. However, I might add—let's not forget the coach's tactics were questionable in first half. Still, respect for the emotional gesture. 🇫🇷
"There are things more important than a World Cup"—that quote from Mbappe is going to stick with me. In a world obsessed with winning at all costs, this reminds us that humanity comes first. France might go all the way this year with this kind of spirit. 💙🤍❤️
From Bengaluru, all I can say is: chak de France! This is what team sport is all about—standing by your coach in tough times. That said, I hope Deschamps uses this support to fix their defensive lapses. Sweden almost equalized twice. But today, it's about heart, not just tactics. 🏆
This is the kind of story that makes you believe in sports again. No ego, no drama—just pure support. Mbappe's maturity is off the charts. And Gusto's comment about "returning the favour" shows the culture Deschamps built. I'm rooting for France even more now.
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