France coach Didier Deschamps has hit back at critics of Les Bleus’ two friendlies against Ivory Coast and South Africa.
The 2018 FIFA World Cup-winning coach has arranged two friendlies against African teams in the upcoming international break after securing their ticket for the tournament by topping their qualification group with five wins and three draws.
While some other European giants such UEFA European Championship winners Italy and 2016 Euro champions Portugal having to go the play-off route, France were able to handpick their opponents for the upcoming international break and opted for the two African teams – which has received some criticism at home.
“Some of you will say that these matches have no value but it is better to win them otherwise they will increase in value,” Deschamps said during a press conference, as per Sport 365.
“I prefer to be in my place, qualified for the World Cup with two friendly matches on the programme than that of my Italian or Portuguese counterparts who will face each other in the play-off.”
Deschamps continued his defence of the two games, saying they serve many important purposes in his side’s preparation for the upcoming World Cup in Qatar.
“Do not trivialise an international gathering,” he added.
“The pleasure of meeting up is there because the players have chained matches with disappointments and moments of happiness.
“We haven’t been together for four months: it’s the return of the French team. Next, I am realistic. Many players are there, had very important matches before and will have very important ones after.”
“We are going to play in Lille, the stadium is full and in Marseille, the stadium will be.”
France will face Ivory Coast on Friday, 25 March before hosting South Africa four days later.
