ARLINGTON, Texas : France captain Kylian Mbappe said his side were too “sloppy” to compete with Spain after their 2-0 World Cup semi-final defeat on Tuesday, admitting the European champions outplayed Les Bleus both tactically and technically.
France’s hopes of reaching a third successive World Cup final ended as Spain controlled possession for long periods, with Rodri and Fabian Ruiz dominating midfield to set up a meeting with either England or Argentina in Sunday’s final.
“We were three against two in midfield and against Spain, that’s hard,” Mbappe told reporters.
“Fabian and Rodri had plenty of time to play. There was a lack of communication on the press. I think we should have gone man-to-man and forced them to run with us.”
France entered the semi-final with six consecutive victories and 16 goals at the tournament but struggled to impose themselves against Spain’s pressing and possession-based approach.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal, before Pedro Porro doubled Spain’s advantage shortly before the hour mark.
Mbappe said France had intended to press high and disrupt Spain’s rhythm but failed to execute their game plan.
“We didn’t play the game we wanted, technically or tactically,” he said. “When you don’t do what you have to do in a World Cup semi-final, you don’t win.”
The Real Madrid forward also criticised France’s quality in possession, saying poor first touches and technical errors prevented his side from capitalising on the few opportunities they created.
“We were too sloppy technically,” Mbappe said. “We could not hurt them when we had the chance.”
Coach Didier Deschamps attempted to change the momentum by replacing Adrien Rabiot at halftime before introducing Desire Doue and Rayan Cherki, but France were unable to disrupt Spain’s control.
Mbappe, who came into the match with eight goals, was held scoreless and remains level with Argentina captain Lionel Messi in the race for the tournament’s Golden Boot.
“As the captain, I have to take all the responsibility and I have no problem with that,” Mbappe said. “We wanted to go to the final. We didn’t.”
France will face the loser of Wednesday’s semi-final between Argentina and England in Saturday’s third-place playoff in Miami Gardens, Florida.
