Kylian Mbappe acknowledged the inevitable backlash after France's 2-1 loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup semifinal on July 14, 2026, in Arlington, Texas. The defeat ended France's title defense and sparked immediate criticism of the team's performance.
Mbappe, who scored France's only goal in the match, told reporters after the game: 'I know what's coming. People will say we failed, and they're right. We had high expectations, and we didn't meet them.' He added that the team must accept responsibility for the result.
Reports indicated minor disturbances in Paris following the loss, with police making a small number of arrests, though no official figures were confirmed. The French Football Federation declined to comment on the team's future plans.
Spain will face Brazil in the final on July 18, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
