Reaching the World Cup semi-finals for the third consecutive time is a remarkable achievement for Les Bleus. However, what makes me believe they are getting closer to the championship is the way they overcome opponents. After six matches, France almost always controlled the game, successively defeating Senegal, Iraq, Norway, Sweden, Paraguay and Morocco. Only Paraguay made Mbappe and his teammates strain themselves until the last minutes, but it was also that match that showed the most fearsome version of the French team.
What impressed me is that France not only knows how to play beautiful football, but is also ready to win with tenacity when necessary. In my opinion, a champion must always know how to do both of those things. Against Morocco, that bravery is even more clearly shown.
Mbappe missed a penalty in the first half, but France was not discouraged at all. After a series of saves by Bono, Mbappe finally scored with a classy curling shot. Six minutes later, Dembele sealed the victory with a dribble and finish imbued with the imprint of the reigning Ballon d'Or winner.
In my opinion, Morocco did not play badly at all. However, against the French team, everything became almost harmless. People often say that the strength of Les Bleus lies in the attack. That is true, but in my opinion, it is still not enough to explain why they became the number one candidate for the championship. Mbappe, Dembele, Olise, Doue or Barcola create an attack that can make any defense wary. However, the foundation that makes up the strength of the French team lies in the defensive system and balance in the playing style.
If the 2018 World Cup is a pragmatic French team, and the 2022 World Cup is a team that explodes in attack but is sometimes fragile behind, then the 2026 World Cup is probably the most balanced version under Didier Deschamps. Six matches, 16 goals and only two times having to pick the ball out of the net are telling numbers. More importantly, France no longer lives on an individual.
Mbappe can make a difference, but if he is blocked, then Dembele will speak up. If Dembele is silent, Olise can unlock the match. Doue brings creativity, Barcola brings speed, and Mateta is always ready to appear at the right time. In my opinion, that is the difference between a strong team and a team with a champion DNA. Perhaps what I like most about the French team at this time is maturity in their football thinking. They can show beautiful football when space appears, but are also ready to turn the match into a battle if circumstances require. After the victory over Paraguay, Mbappe once said: "We also know how to play uncomfortable football if necessary". In my opinion, it is not simply a statement, but the identity of the French team at this year's World Cup.
France still has two matches ahead, possibly Spain in the semi-finals and then another opponent in the final. However, at this time, it is difficult to find a team that is more comprehensive than Les Bleus. They have stars, depth, experience, bravery and the coldness of a champion. The Gold Cup is still ahead, but France has shown the appearance of the winning team.
