The French national team experienced a sudden misfortune during the FIFA World Cup. On Tuesday morning local time, news of the passing of French coach Didier Deschamps' mother reached the team's base in Boston, deeply affecting the entire squad.
According to RMC, Deschamps gathered the players and coaching staff for a brief address before lunch. The moment was highly emotional, with many French team members who had already learned the news struggling to hide their sadness while listening to the coach speak, and several had tears in their eyes. Deschamps has always been one of the most respected and beloved figures within the team, so this news had a profound impact on the entire squad.
Despite his grief, Deschamps conveyed a firm message to the players. He hoped the team could maintain its momentum in the FIFA World Cup and give their all in the upcoming matches.
After the coach's speech, the French internationals gathered for a long discussion. A common goal has formed in the locker room: the team hopes to dedicate a victory to Deschamps in Friday's match, not only to continue the team's winning streak but also to support their head coach during this family tragedy.
This marks another family blow for Deschamps. In May 2022, on the eve of the French team's participation in the UEFA Nations League, his father, Pierre Deschamps, also passed away.
Later that day, some French players with limited playing time played a warm-up match against Major League Soccer team New England Revolution. Before the match, everyone observed a minute of silence for Deschamps' mother.
As Deschamps has left the team to return home to be with his family, assistant coach Guy Stéphan will take charge of the warm-up match and France's FIFA World Cup match against Norway on Friday.
The French team, which has already advanced to the FIFA World Cup Round of 16, hopes to express its support for Deschamps with victories in the upcoming matches.
Comments