France knocked out of final. France were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup by Spain (2-0) on Tuesday in Dallas despite a strong first half. Adrien Rabiot, booked early, was subbed at halftime by Manu Koné - a call that sparked debate. Didier Deschamps stood by his decision in a press conference.
What happened in Dallas?
Adrien Rabiot was booked in the first half against Spain, limiting his influence in the second. The Milan midfielder was replaced at the break, brought off for Manu Koné. Yet he was one of the few French players to trouble La Roja for 45 minutes. Deschamps said Rabiot told him at halftime: “Coach, I can’t play my game,” citing his yellow card.
William Saliba played through persistent discomfort since March. “The pain was unbearable,” Deschamps revealed. “It’s problematic, tests were done, but it hasn’t worsened.” The manager reiterated his mantra: “I make choices” - a phrase now synonymous with his tenure.
Why is Deschamps defending the Rabiot substitution?
The France boss showed no regrets. “I chose with the information I had,” he said. He referenced past experience: “I’ve been in those games and was a shadow of myself.” For Deschamps, the call was tactical: “Manage it, don’t let your foot linger,” he advised Rabiot, whose all-round game demands freedom of movement.
Deschamps dismissed speculation over a shift in approach. “I don’t ask myself those questions,” he snapped. A stance that reflects his philosophy: own the call, even amid criticism. Last result: France 2-0 Morocco (2026-07-09). The Bleus are on a five-game winning streak.
What’s next for France?
France face England Saturday in Miami for the third-place playoff (2026-07-18). A match with no major sporting stakes, but vital for a strong finish to the World Cup. Deschamps has already announced his departure after the tournament, leaving one question unanswered: will this final outing live up to his legacy?
Pundits are already dissecting the impact of this exit. In five games, France have not lost or drawn (WWWWW). An impressive run, but it ends here. The 2026 generation turns a page - with or without Rabiot in the second half.
