France in top shape thanks to a captain who keeps surprising

France, led by captain Kylian Mbappé, confirmed their dominance with a 1‑0 win over Paraguay on July 4 2026. Youri Djorkaeff said the young striker "still surprises me," highlighting the leader’s impact on a side that has logged 5 straight wins (WWWWW). The result comes as they gear up for the next home clash against Morocco on July 9 2026.

Why Djorkaeff is impressed by Mbappé

Djorkaeff, a double World Cup winner, praised Mbappé’s ability to set the tempo and lift his teammates. "He doesn’t just score, he creates," he explained in a video interview. The Frenchman, with 7 goals in 5 appearances, displays a rare maturity, blending speed, finishing and collective sense. This versatility makes the captain hard to shut down, even for disciplined defenses like Paraguay’s.

The captain’s influence on squad dynamics

The France squad has shown exceptional cohesion since the tournament began. Coach Didier Deschamps often stresses a "indestructible" collective, and Djorkaeff’s comments confirm the captain embodies that ethos. Players kept cool amid controversial refereeing, as highlighted by Jean‑Pierre Papin’s criticism of officials after the Morocco match.

What lies ahead before the Morocco showdown?

With flawless form (5W‑0D‑0L) and an attacker on a roll, France approaches the July 9 fixture with confidence. The next test will be maintaining discipline and handling the pressure of a demanding home crowd. If Mbappé keeps delivering surprises, the Bleus could solidify their status as favorites for the 2026 World Cup.