France head coach Didier Deschamps has dismissed concerns over FIFA’s decision to appoint an all-Argentine officiating team for his side’s 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal against Morocco.
Ahead of the blockbuster clash, Deschamps said France’s focus remains firmly on the opposition rather than the match officials.
‘Our Opponent Is Morocco, Not the Referee’
Speaking before the quarterfinal, Deschamps expressed confidence in the appointed referees despite criticism surrounding the decision.
“We have to deal with it. I trust the referees. Our opponent is Morocco, not the referee,” he said.
FIFA has appointed Argentine referee Facundo Tello, along with fellow Argentine assistant referees, the reserve assistant and the fourth official, to oversee the match.
France Eye Another Deep World Cup Run
France enter the quarterfinal as one of the tournament favourites after an impressive attacking display throughout the competition.
Led by Kylian Mbappé, the French side has scored 14 goals, the highest tally in the tournament so far. Their attack also features Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola, making them one of the most dangerous teams in the competition.
They will face a confident Morocco side that knocked out the Netherlands on penalties in the Round of 32.
Referee Appointment Sparks Debate
The appointment of an all-Argentine officiating crew has generated discussion because of the sporting rivalry between France and Argentina following the dramatic 2022 FIFA World Cup final.
France goalkeeper Robin Risser also defended the officials, saying any tension between the two nations should not influence refereeing decisions.
“There has been a certain bitterness between France and Argentina since the last final, but that’s part of the game. If these referees are here, it is because they are good enough for this level,” he said.
Deschamps Takes Swipe at Refereeing Criticism
The issue gained further attention after Argentina’s controversial Round of 16 victory over Egypt, where Egyptian players and coaching staff criticised several refereeing decisions, including a disallowed goal following a VAR review.
Responding to the controversy, Deschamps appeared to make a light-hearted remark.
“Let us hope our officials are as good as Monsieur Letexier was,” he said, referring to the referee who officiated Argentina’s win over Egypt.
France and Morocco will meet in Boston for a place in the FIFA World Cup semifinals, with the winner moving one step closer to lifting football’s biggest prize.
