France, tense atmosphere after the semifinal: Thuram among the most affected

The elimination in the World Cup semifinals against Spain has left its mark on France. The return to work ahead of tomorrow’s third-place match in Miami against England was marked by gloomy faces and a heavy atmosphere.

According to RMC Sport, a marked climate of tension hovered over Didier Deschamps’s group. Marcus Thuram, Lucas Digne, Désiré Doué, and Lucas Hernandez appeared particularly affected by the disappointment of the defeat. The coach, who will lead the Bleus for the last time before handing over to Zinedine Zidane, is also said to have rejected the players’ request for a night off, as reported by L’Equipe. The intention is to keep concentration high so as not to end the campaign with two defeats.

Digne did not take part fully in the training session. The left-back spent a lot of time talking with Deschamps and some members of the coaching staff, then did an individual run with a fitness coach.

Several changes are expected in the lineup, especially in attack. Maghnes Akliouche, Thuram, and Rayan Cherki could receive their first starting spot in the tournament, unless Deschamps opts again for Doué.