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Kylian Mbappé ‘Feels Good’ as France Coach Hints at World Cup Semifinal Confidence

2026-07-14 · Kylian Mbappé · Player Focus

**Kylian Mbappé is ‘feeling good’ and fully prepared for France’s World Cup semifinal**, according to head coach Didier Deschamps, who praised the striker’s fitness and confidence ahead of the knockout clash. With Les Bleus set to face a formidable opponent in the last-four showdown, Mbappé’s sharpness could decide the match.

Deschamps described Mbappé as ‘in great shape’ and ‘focused’ after a strong tournament campaign. The France manager stressed the striker’s physical and mental readiness, though he avoided overpromising results. ‘He’s ready,’ Deschamps told reporters. ‘We’ll see how the game goes.’

Mbappé has been France’s top scorer in this World Cup, with goals in every phase-including a decisive strike in the round of 16. His pace and finishing remain a threat, but the semifinal will test his ability to perform under pressure. Rivals will target him early, knowing a single mistake could shift momentum.

France’s opponent in the semifinal has yet to be announced, but the team’s preparation remains tight. Mbappé will likely start, with Deschamps set to rotate only if injuries force a change. If France wins, they’ll face a third-place playoff or the final, where Mbappé’s experience will be critical.

This is Mbappé’s third World Cup, and his 2026 campaign has been his most consistent yet. With 10 goals in major competitions this year, he’s on track to break records. The semifinal will be his biggest test since the 2022 final loss, where he scored twice but France fell to Argentina.

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