Deschamps: Substituting 'Tired' Mbappe Against Portugal Was Strategic

France's coach Didier Deschamps explained that substituting a fatigued Kylian Mbappe during the final 15 minutes of extra time against Portugal was necessary. Mbappe was replaced at the interval of the added 30 minutes in Hamburg on Friday, with the score still 0-0. Despite Portugal missing two significant chances through Joao Felix and Nuno Mendes, France eventually won 5-3 on penalties, with Felix missing the crucial spot-kick.

Deschamps noted that Mbappe had a game-high five shots but only managed an expected goals (xG) value of 0.17. He believed it would have been unwise to keep the 25-year-old on the field any longer. "He's tired, obviously. Muscularly, it's not easy with everything he's had. I saw him struggling during the first period of extra time. It was pointless," Deschamps said. "Kylian has always been honest with me and the group, so it was only natural to bring in some new blood."

Despite not scoring from open play in Euro 2024, France has reached the semi-finals in four of their last five major tournaments. They will face Spain in Munich on Tuesday. Deschamps acknowledged the tension and tightness of the game, stating, "It could have gone either way, even if we had a more difficult end to the game in extra time."

Deschamps expressed his frustration over not being able to introduce Olivier Giroud for the shootout. "I couldn't bring Olivier on. The referee didn't take our request into account," he said. "I had this last change to make, and Olivier was a candidate to take the kick." Despite this setback, Deschamps praised his squad's performance and resilience.

France's inability to score from open play in their last six matches is notable; they have only scored once from a penalty and twice from opponents' own goals in this period. This is a first for them in 60 years.

Reflecting on Performance

Deschamps highlighted how close and competitive the match was, noting that fatigue played a role towards the end of extra time. "Maybe we were a bit more tired," he admitted. "It comes down to details." He expressed pride in his team for pushing themselves to their limits and emphasised that reaching another semi-final should not be taken lightly.

The coach also mentioned that there was a sense of calm among his players during the penalty shootout, even though it took place in front of Portugal's supporters.

France's journey continues as they prepare for their upcoming semi-final clash against Spain, aiming to maintain their strong performance record in recent major tournaments.

The team’s ability to reach this stage consistently highlights their resilience and determination despite challenges faced along the way.