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Deschamps Flies Home After Mother's Death; Stéphan to Lead France vs Norway

France will play the Group I decider with long-time assistant Guy Stéphan in charge while the team honours their absent, outgoing coach.

Overview

  • The French Football Federation said Deschamps learned of his mother's death and left the World Cup camp on Tuesday to return to France for the funeral.
  • Deschamps will miss France's training sessions and will not be on the bench for Friday's match against Norway, with no firm date given for his return to the squad.
  • Assistant coach Guy Stéphan, who has worked alongside Deschamps for years, has been named interim manager and will oversee team preparation and matchday duties.
  • Both France and Norway have already qualified for the Round of 32 but the Friday game will decide who finishes top of Group I and the more favorable knockout path.
  • The absence comes during Deschamps' announced final tournament as France coach, and players have paid tribute while saying they aim to make him proud as the team moves forward.