Deschamps defends Dembele after Iraq victory
Following France’s 3-0 victory over Iraq, coach Didier Deschamps defended winger Ousmane Dembele from critics. Deschamps addressed reporters after the match, referencing the scrutiny Dembele faced after France’s 3-1 win against Senegal. During the Senegal match, Dembele played for 80 minutes without completing a dribble or registering a shot on target before being substituted by Bradley Barcola.
Deschamps suggested that journalists might now find a new target for criticism. He stated that there have been no issues with Dembele, who is adapting to a system he does not typically play in during the rest of the year. The coach believes that once Dembele achieves good physical form, it is simply a matter of making adjustments.
Dembele’s impact and trust from the coach
Deschamps reiterated his confidence in Dembele, highlighting his importance to the team. The coach noted that Dembele, a 2018 World Cup winner, has earned 61 caps for France and scored eight goals. Deschamps praised the forward’s mentality, emphasizing the mutual trust between them despite external commentary.
The coach explained that Dembele is not a player who doubts himself, but his recent performance was significant because he is a decisive player. Deschamps added that Dembele possesses the capacity to be decisive, and any previous lack of demonstration was due to periods of absence. Dembele has been with the national team since 2018, often coming off the bench, and his recent performance is beneficial for both him and the national team.
Dembele achieved a significant milestone during his 68 minutes on the field against Iraq before being replaced by Desire Doue. He provided three key passes, including an assist for Kylian Mbappe, by intercepting a missed first touch from Ahmed Basil. Approximately 10 minutes later, Dembele scored his first major tournament goal.
The goal came after Michael Olise played him through, allowing Dembele to convert a one-on-one opportunity. This finish, from four total shots, served as a response to scrutiny on the global stage. Dembele’s club, Paris Saint-Germain, has recently celebrated two Champions League titles in 2025 and 2026.
France’s attacking prowess and upcoming challenge
The 3-0 victory over Iraq demonstrated France’s professional display, despite a two-hour delay in the second half due to thunderstorms at the Philadelphia Stadium. Mbappe scored two goals in the match, but Dembele and Olise, who started in the middle and on the right respectively, were consistently dangerous. Olise hit the woodwork with a lob, and Dembele forced a save before hitting the side-netting.
For France’s third goal, Olise delivered a precise pass that allowed Dembele to take a touch and score into the far corner. This play exemplified their ability to execute quick, effective moves and display quality. Both players entered the summer in strong form, continuing their domestic season performances. Olise is recognized as a versatile attacker, while Dembele is the current Ballon d’Or holder and has won two consecutive Champions League titles.
Olise’s ability to move across the final third is a valuable asset for France, and he was instrumental in linking play against Iraq, as he was against Senegal. His second assist to Dembele was particularly notable, similar to a pass against Senegal that led to Mbappe’s goal. Olise, who began his career at Hayes & Yeading United, is currently tied for the lead in the assist charts with three assists in his opening two games.
Dembele’s role in the France setup, despite his individual accolades, sometimes means he is not celebrated as much as Mbappe. However, his recent goal was an accomplished finish, and his goals are expected to be important for France’s success this summer. Dembele and Olise are seen as key supporting players for Mbappe, contributing to the team’s overall attacking strength.
While there may be questions regarding the midfield and defence as France faces tougher opponents, the attacking unit is considered highly talented and capable of sharing the scoring burden with Mbappe. The team’s talent extends beyond the main attacking duo, including players like Aurelien Tchouameni, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, and Joules Kounde, as well as Barcola and Doue.
France is now preparing for a crucial final group-stage match against Norway. Both teams currently have a perfect record, having accumulated six points from their initial two matches. This upcoming encounter will determine the top spot in the group, with Dembele expected to play a prominent role as France aims for a flawless group stage finish.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
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