Deschamps defends Dembele after France winger's World Cup goal

France manager Didier Deschamps defended Ousmane Dembele after the winger produced a goal and an assist in a 3-0 win over Iraq, answering critics who had questioned a subdued display against Senegal. Deschamps joked that journalists should “get off his case” after the earlier criticism, saying Dembele is adapting to a system he does not play in for most of the year and that once he is fit it is a matter of making adjustments.

“He has my confidence and he knows it. He’s not the kind of player who doubts himself, but it’s important that he did what he did today because he’s a decisive player,” the coach added. Dembele, who has 61 caps and eight goals for France, played 68 minutes before being replaced by Desire Doue.

He made three key passes, including an assist for Kylian Mbappe after intercepting Ahmed Basil’s missed first touch, then scored about 10 minutes later after Michael Olise set him through — his first goal at a major tournament. Paris Saint-Germain have celebrated Champions League titles in 2025 and 2026 under his guidance.

France

deschamps, ousmane dembele, france, world cup, kylian mbappe, assist, goal, champions league, michael olise, desire doue