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France’s request to wear black armbands for Didier Deschamps’ late mother was reportedly rejected by FIFA, overshadowing a 4-1 win over Norway and a perfect group-stage run.
France’s head coach Didier Deschamps (AP)
France’s final FIFA World Cup group-stage victory over Norway was overshadowed by an emotional off-field story after FIFA reportedly denied the team’s request to wear black armbands in memory of manager Didier Deschamps’ mother.
According to The Athleticthe French Football Federation (FFF) sought permission for the tribute after Deschamps missed Friday’s match following the death of his mother. However, FIFA declined the request, preventing the players from wearing black armbands during the game.
The FFF also revealed there was confusion over a planned pre-match tribute. Journalists were initially informed that a minute’s silence would be observed in honour of Deschamps’ mother, before the federation issued a clarification saying FIFA had confirmed the silence was instead being held for the victims of the devastating earthquake in Venezuela.
Deschamps, one of the most successful figures in French football history, has managed France since 2012, leading Les Bleus to the 2018 FIFA World Cup title and the 2022 final. His absence was keenly felt, although longtime assistant Guy Stéphan took charge on the touchline.
France responded with a commanding 4-1 victory over Norway to complete a perfect group-stage campaign. Ousmane Dembélé, the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, starred with the second-fastest hat-trick in World Cup history as France finished with three wins from three matches.
The victory secured top spot in the group and booked France a last-32 clash against one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Tuesday.
FIFA has been contacted to clarify the circumstances surrounding both the rejected armband request and the confusion over the pre-match minute’s silence.
About the Author
After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His…Read More
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