Deschamps says France needs to be even more efficient against Morocco
France has already scored 14 goals in the World Cup, leading the tournament so far, but coach Didier Deschamps urged his players on Wednesday to achieve even greater offensive efficiency when they face Morocco in the quarter-finals on Thursday (9).
The match is a rematch of the 2022 World Cup semi-final, when France ended Morocco's historic campaign in Qatar. But this time the North Africans are no longer surprise underdogs, but a confident team gunning for the title.
"We need to be efficient, offensively speaking," Deschamps said at a press conference. "In all areas, both teams have strengths."
"We are efficient, but we could have done better in that aspect. Sometimes you have six chances and score two goals, and sometimes you have two chances and score two. The most important thing is to be efficient."
France eliminated Paraguay in the round of 16 with a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a penalty converted by Kylian Mbappé. The French captain has seven goals in the tournament, the second highest number, behind only Argentine Lionel Messi, who has eight.
Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola formed one of France's most dangerous attacks at the World Cup.
Morocco breezed through the group stage before eliminating the Netherlands and host country Canada, confirming its status as a serious title contender.
"Morocco's profile is not the same as Paraguay's. We faced them four years ago in the semi-finals," said Deschamps. "They played in the final of the CAN (African Cup of Nations). They have high-level players. They are not here to play. They are here to win. We have to be prepared, play well and beat this great team."
Deschamps will have to wait and see if midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, who has been recovering from a muscle injury, will be fit to play.
"He is feeling better, but I left the hotel early this morning. I can't say anything more. He will be able to take part in training today. All the other players are available," said Deschamps.
As for France's appeal to have Michael Olise's yellow card against Paraguay overturned, Deschamps said FIFA has informed them that the warning remains valid.
The decision comes days after the controversy caused by FIFA's decision to suspend a one-match ban imposed after American player Folarin Balogun received a red card, following President Donald Trump's intervention.
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Source: CNN