France’s defence is controlled, disciplined and built in the image of Didier Deschamps

“Despite having an array of attacking talent at his disposal, not one of Deschamps’ players has scored a goal from open play during Euro 2024. And yet his team are through to a semi-final against Spain having beaten Portugal on penalties 5-3 following a 0-0 draw after extra time. For all of France’s offensive woes, they make up for it with the best defence of the tournament. They have conceded just one goal, a penalty against Poland (twice taken by Robert Lewandowski), in five games and are yet to go behind. Les Bleus have faced Romelu Lukaku, Lewandowski, Memphis Depay and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have a combined 344 international goals, admittedly some in better form than others. …”
HY Times/The Athletic