Deschamps: I can t explain everything, but France obviously played badly in the first half

Hupu News on October 14th: Didier Deschamps, head coach of the French national team, attended the post-match press conference after being tied 2-2 by Iceland.

Are you angry at the referee's decision after the game?

There was indeed a foul on the first earth, but the referee did not see it. But the second goal we conceded, if we conceded the goal, it wasn't the referee's fault... I don't want to focus the game on that detail.

They took the lead without a chance, even though we didn't have much of a chance ourselves. I'm not going to disparage this team, they have a lot of quality and the ability to continue to produce great results.

We performed better in the second half, but we lacked impact in the first half. We needed to be sharper and that gave us the lead. But we may have relaxed a little bit.

How do you explain the team's defensive tension?

We cannot concede the second goal. We made a mistake. We cannot allow ourselves to be breached on the pitch. The ball carrier wasn't taking shots on target, the players were in poor positioning, and we were too high up. We might still be celebrating the second goal. Afterwards, talk about nerves... They had two shots on target and scored two goals.

You have another slow start, just like the game against Azerbaijan...

I can't explain everything. But in reality, the first half was very similar to Friday's game. We didn't have enough influence.

I changed players between halves; that's not always ideal, but that's no excuse. Considering the number of players out during training camp, this gives me a chance to observe how other players perform.

What is your evaluation of this game?

We got 4 points and it would be great if we could win every game... There are a lot of players missing, but I won't talk about them.

The players have tried their best; it is not easy to replace experienced players. We have won 10 points from 12 games. We have two games left. We have to respect our opponents, even if we would prefer to get 12 points.

How would you rate the performance of Christopher Nkunku (who scored the equalizing goal)?

He was in poor shape in the first half. Even though it wasn't easy, he took control of the game. He has the ability to get back on the field and make an impact.

Due to injury, his playing time in AC Milan was limited, so he has not yet reached his peak. But he has great strength and excellent skills.

From your perspective, how was Mateta's debut?

I remember his goals, that's what he came here for. It is not easy for him to face tall players in the middle.

He didn't catch too many balls. I wish teams could get more crosses into his hands because he is an efficient player in the penalty area. To score is a very good thing for a debut in this game.