Deschamps defends Dembélé, warns that Iraq will not be taken lightly before the clash with France
France coach Didier Deschamps defends Ousmane Dembélé and insists Iraq will be a serious challenge in Philadelphia; It is said that there will be no "revenge" even if they meet Spain again in the 2026 World Cup.
After France's 3-1 win over Senegal, Didier Deschamps addressed the issue of Ousmane Dembélé's form and Les Bleus' next match against Iraq in Philadelphia. According to the coach, criticism is too much focused on Dembélé and it is unfair to target only him after the difficult first half against the Senegalese, especially since the whole team was affected by the aggressive plan of the opponent and some technical mistakes.
Deschamps pointed out that Dembélé's role at PSG is different from that of the national team, so there are adjustments to be made in terms of movement and position. He said, when France expanded the game more in the second half and forced Senegal's full-backs to open up, the space spontaneously opened up and "Ous"'s game rose.
Regarding Iraq, which he allegedly compared privately to Cape Verde, Deschamps made it clear that this is not a small team. He highlighted Iraq's results—went to qualify for Mexico against Bolivia, drew with Spain and matched Norway—as proof that their players were organized and had clear moves. He warned, the battle should not be assumed to be easy; it must be tackled with both serious concentration and intent to ensure progress.
On Dembélé's physical condition, Deschamps emphatically stated that that matter was over: Dembélé had started around ten games in Ligue 1, presenting no serious problems, but only lacking consistent competitive minutes due to being managed at the club. The staff are aiming to get his rhythm and confidence back, and Deschamps is convinced his condition will improve as the tournament goes on.
The coach also pointed out that the next few days are critical: France will do everything to get a result and enter the Last-32, because the third game will be important in the final order of the table and will determine the path of their campaign. He added that Spain showed a good performance against Saudi Arabia and said there will be no "revenge" in case the paths of the two powerhouses cross in the next stages.
France-Iraq in Philadelphia tomorrow night at 23:00 (local time).
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