In a notable shift, Antoine Griezmann, a key player in France’s 2022 semi-final victory over Morocco, was absent from the pitch as Les Bleus advanced past the Atlas Lions to secure their third consecutive World Cup semi-final berth.
The 35-year-old, who recently signed with Orlando City, had not been present at a France match since stepping back from international duty in 2024 following a brief period as vice-captain.
Following Hugo Lloris’s retirement after the last World Cup, it appeared Griezmann would inherit the captaincy, given his longstanding loyalty to Didier Deschamps. However, in a surprising decision, the coach entrusted the armband to Kylian Mbappé instead.
This choice sparked a national conversation, with Griezmann later acknowledging the disappointment he felt at being passed over after nearly ten years of service.
Yet, three years on, as Mbappé propelled France into another World Cup semi-final with a goal—his eighth of the tournament—in the 2-0 victory against Morocco, any doubts regarding his leadership have faded. At just 27, the forward has assumed a comprehensive role as the team’s leader, complementing his scoring responsibilities.
Mbappé’s seniority has been a prominent aspect of this World Cup, as he is one of only two players on the current roster who have participated in the last two tournaments, alongside Ousmane Dembélé. Notably, key World Cup winners N’Golo Kanté and Lucas Hernandez missed the Qatar tournament due to injuries.
Throughout his media engagements during this World Cup, Mbappé has emphasized the wealth of experience he gained from his previous tournaments. As discussions about the team’s progress in the United States draw parallels with former French squads, he aims to provide context.
“I’ve been world champion and I’ve been runner-up, and this team is neither one nor the other,” he said after the match in Boston. “As it stands it’s not the best team I’ve played in, but it might be the one with the most potential, the one with which we can look to the future more easily. This is a team that we can dream with, although the best teams are those who win.”
His measured outlook reflects the lessons learned from past tournaments, where he was part of formidable French attacks. During Euro 2020, France fielded a celebrated forward line featuring Mbappé, Griezmann, and Karim Benzema, which was dubbed “the envy of every country” by L’Équipe, only to face an unexpected exit against Switzerland.
“We’re well aware of the potential of this team, but that’s not what wins you matches,” Mbappé added. “We’re confident when we step out on to the pitch, but we still have to prove ourselves before being called invincible, or whatever superlative you want to use.”
Despite a tumultuous departure from Paris Saint-Germain impacting his reputation at home, Mbappé’s support remains unwavering whenever he dons the French jersey.
The way he navigates opposing defenses, media scrutiny—both favorable and unfavorable—and his leadership responsibilities has only reinforced Deschamps’ decision from three years ago. The 27-year-old is now fully committed to mentoring the team’s newcomers.
Mbappé’s mentorship is evident in the respect he insists his teammates maintain for the World Cup, which he regards as the pinnacle of football. “As a player, nothing is bigger than playing in the World Cup. We’re well aware of that and we’re trying to get that across to the younger players,” he stated recently. Few players are better positioned than Mbappé, who has scored 20 goals in 20 World Cup matches, to underscore this point.
“This country has a history in the World Cup,” he continued, with a tone of seriousness. “They need to know about it, and know the pressure that comes with playing for France.”
France has managed to withstand the mounting pressure, with their status as tournament favorites only growing over recent weeks. As they gear up for their semi-final in Dallas, Mbappé is determined to ensure his younger teammates remain grounded to realize the potential he speaks of.
