This had never happened to him. Didier Deschamps failed to lead the France team to first place in Group D at Euro 2024. After their draw against Poland (1-1), this Tuesday, the Blues had to be content second place, behind Austria.
Since his first major international competition on the bench of the French selection, the 2014 World Cup, Didier Deschamps had always allowed the French to finish at the top of their group. In Brazil, France achieved this with 7 points, ahead of Switzerland, Ecuador and Honduras.
The Blues had always snatched first place
Two years later, during the Euro at home, the Blues again won two matches and drew one. Once again, they placed themselves ahead of Switzerland, then Albania and Romania. They reached the final, lost against Portugal.
The difficulties of the French team in the group game have often been pointed out in recent years. This was particularly the case during the 2018 World Cup, ultimately won by Didier Deschamps and his gang. France finished first in its group with 7 points, ahead of Denmark, Peru and Australia. With only three goals scored, including an own goal and a penalty.
If the Blues had finished at the top of their group during Euro 2021, they only had 5 points. Like this year. But that was enough for them to beat Germany, Portugal and Hungary. A fairly dense and spicy hen.
Finally, the France team came out at the top of its group during the 2022 World Cup with 6 points, as many as Australia. The Blues lost to Tunisia on the last day. Their only defeat of the competition, before losing the penalty shootout in the final against Argentina.
