Deschamps Blasts Referee, France's Performance After World Cup Semifinal Loss to Spain

France's reign as world champions came to a painful end in the World Cup semifinals, as Spain handed them a 2-0 defeat in a match that left Didier Deschamps questioning both his team's technical level and the referee's decision-making. Spain struck first from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute, Mikel Oyarzabal converting after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal inside the box. Deschamps, however, was unconvinced by the call, pointing out that the ball had brushed Yamal's elbow before the contact. "I don't want to sound like I'm complaining, but does this referee have the necessary professionalism for a World Cup semifinal?" Deschamps said after the match. Pedro Porro doubled Spain's lead in the 58th minute, finishing off a precise pass from Dani Olmo. By then, La Roja had full control: they won 60% of duels and had registered eight shots to France's two. France's star frontline of Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise — who had combined for 13 goals and 10 assists in the previous six matches — managed just five shots with a combined expected goals (xG) of 0.15. "Spain defended exceptionally well, leaving us very little space. Because we made technical mistakes, it became very difficult to trouble them," Deschamps said. "They read the game brilliantly and cut out our passes." The defeat ends Deschamps' 14-year tenure as France manager. The third-place match against the loser of the other semifinal between England and Argentina will be his last in charge. According to ESPN, Zinedine Zidane will take over in the spring.