World Cup
Deschamps to miss Norway match after mother’s death
France head coach Didier Deschamps will miss the final Group I fixture against Norway after learning on Tuesday that his mother has died, the French Football Federation announced. Deschamps, 57, is returning to France for the funeral and will be absent from the Friday match in Massachusetts.
The federation said Deschamps learned of his mother's death on Tuesday morning and is travelling back to France for the funeral. “At this incredibly painful time, we wish the head coach great strength and assure him of everyone's support,” the FFF said.
Assistant coach Guy Stéphan will assume temporary charge of the squad, including for Friday's game in Massachusetts, until Deschamps returns. Stéphan, who has been Deschamps' deputy, will oversee training and match preparations.
The French federation did not specify when Deschamps is expected to rejoin the team in the United States. His absence will be felt as the side prepares for the decisive group encounter.
France reach World Cup knock-out stages with 3-0 win over Iraq
Deschamps, 57, had previously announced he will step down as France coach after the tournament, ending a 14‑year tenure that began in 2012. He took charge of the national side following the 2012 Euro campaign. The former France captain guided Les Bleus to World Cup triumph in 2018. The team later fell to Argentina in the 2022 final, losing on penalties. France opened the 2026 World Cup with a 3‑1 victory over Senegal and a 3‑0 win against Iraq, securing progression to the knockout stage. Both results placed the French side at the top of Group I. Norway has also won its two group matches, matching France's record. The Scandinavian side will therefore face a fully fit French squad in the upcoming encounter.