France head coach Didier Deschamps has warned his players not to underestimate Morocco, describing the Atlas Lions as one of the strongest teams remaining in the 2026 FIFA World Cup ahead of Thursday’s quarter-final.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Deschamps praised Morocco’s quality and insisted France expect one of their toughest tests of the tournament.
“We played against Morocco four years ago. Morocco is not Paraguay,” Deschamps said.
“They reached the final of the Africa Cup of Nations. They have outstanding players and are a team that likes to dominate possession and attack. They have very high quality.”
The France boss also revealed that his squad had been managing the effects of extreme weather conditions during the tournament but was benefiting from an extra day of recovery.
“There are absolutely no guarantees. We had an extra day of rest, and in the meantime we experienced a severe heat wave and heavy rain. Rest is essential, and we are doing our best with the medical staff to ensure the players are in the best possible condition.”
Deschamps confirmed that midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni is recovering well and remains the only player whose fitness is still being monitored ahead of the match.
“Tchouaméni’s condition is improving. He is the only player we still need to assess, but he could take part in today’s training session. The rest of the squad is available.”
The French coach also disclosed that FIFA had rejected the French Football Federation’s appeal against Michael Olise’s yellow card, meaning the booking will stand.
Looking ahead to the tactical battle, Deschamps said Morocco’s consistency under new head coach Mohamed Ouahbi had impressed him.
“Despite the change in the coaching staff, they have maintained their level. They know my players well, but my players also know them well.”
“Their group is united and they have made some adjustments to their style, which is normal after a coaching change. We know what awaits us.”
Deschamps stressed that France would need to excel at both ends of the pitch to reach the semi-finals.
“We have already faced strong opponents, and in the quarter-finals the level rises again. We will need to be efficient defensively and offensively.”
“We will see which team controls possession more. The Moroccan coach is preparing his team, and I am preparing mine.”
Although France have scored freely throughout the tournament, Deschamps believes there is still room for improvement.
“We can always attack better. We have been efficient, but we can improve. The quality of the opposition also influences your efficiency.”
The 57-year-old also dismissed concerns over Kylian Mbappé after the France captain was subjected to racist abuse following the Round of 16 victory over Paraguay.
“Mbappé is mentally fine. He is a very strong person psychologically and is fully focused on the Morocco match.”
“Kylian is ready, just like the rest of the team.”
Deschamps concluded by emphasising that France’s greatest strength lies in its unity rather than individual brilliance.
“Victory is not achieved through team spirit alone, but without it you can lose. What matters is what the players produce on the pitch.”
“For me, the strength of the group is more important than any individual, no matter how talented he is. The players support each other in difficult moments, and that is a real strength for this team.”
He also dismissed suggestions that France were becoming complacent.
“No, there is no excessive euphoria. We have great respect for Morocco. We are confident, of course, but Morocco will be confident as well.”
