Didier Deschamps reflected on his team's performance after France defeated Ukraine 2-0 in their opening World Cup 2026 qualification match. The French coach acknowledged the importance of starting with a win while pointing out areas for improvement.
"This was an important match due to the limited number of games. We knew we had quality. There are some basic elements, but they'll need to be confirmed," stated Deschamps following the victory.
The French national team manager emphasized that despite keeping a clean sheet, the Ukrainian side created two excellent scoring opportunities. He maintained a pragmatic view of the result, noting that it was "just 2-0" while looking ahead to their next challenge.
Deschamps particularly focused on his team's high-pressing strategy, explaining the physical demands it places on players. "It's very energy-consuming to press high up the pitch. The fatigue started with our forwards who made many runs. Then we reduced the intensity of our pressing," he explained.
Interestingly, the coach rejected the notion that his team eased up during portions of the match. "I don't think there was a letdown, rather a strong moment from our opponents. Then we finished the game better," Deschamps clarified.
The tactical approach of high pressing is something "Les Bleus" have been implementing since March, according to their manager. While effective for winning back possession in advantageous positions, Deschamps admitted it comes with significant physical costs.
"It's interesting, but physically... very difficult. Maintaining this system is possible, but I'm not saying it's easy for the players," he acknowledged.
Deschamps also pointed to the youth and inexperience in his squad as factors they need to address through consistency and game time. Can this young French generation maintain their high-intensity approach throughout an entire qualification campaign?
France will next host Iceland at home, where they'll face the current group leaders in their second qualification match. A tougher test ahead for Deschamps' men?
