Les French can leave their American break with a smile and positive lessons, just over two months before the World Cup. Following a completed performance against Brazil on Thursday, March 26, Didier Deschamps decided to rotate his squad on Sunday, March 29, to face Colombia.
And the “replacements” did more than hold their own in Landover, near Washington, easing to a 3-1 victory over Luis Diaz’s teammates. Doucouré left his mark with a brace and good understanding with Marcus Thuram, while other players responded well to the coach’s expectations.
Competition will be tough on May 14 for the announcement of the 26-man squad for the World Cup. Deschamps hinted after the match on Sunday, March 29, that “Even with an extended list, I know very well that there are some very good players that I will not take,” said the coach to L’Équipe TV. This did not stop some contenders from taking advantage on Sunday.
Maghnès Akliouche, ahead of Thauvin and Nkunku? Starting on the right flank of the attack, the Monégasque undoubtedly had one of his best matches with the French team. Rather timid in his first call-up in September 2025, the young forward seemed free on the field on Sunday. He showcased his talent with a brilliant assist to Marcus Thuram for the second goal, allowing the Inter striker to head in. Deschamps praised his “work rate” and his ability to “inject a lot of speed” into the French attacks.
In addition to capitalizing on his qualities, the 24-year-old player shone with his understanding with his attacking partners. His technical duo with Cherki worked well, and his willingness to seek his teammates in the middle was beneficial for Thuram, who was at times isolated in the match.
The presence of certain attackers in the World Cup squad is unquestionable – such as Mbappé, Olise, or Dembélé. However, the talent from the Rock could potentially jump ahead of other absent players during this break, like Nkunku and Thauvin.
Maxence Lacroix, a solid debut. A successful first call-up for the Crystal Palace defender. Starting against Colombia on Sunday, Maxence Lacroix displayed incredible authority in containing the Colombian attacks, as evidenced by his crucial save on Luis Diaz early in the second half. The player has taken a step up in his club form this season and emerges as a reference in his position in the Premier League.
His presence is great news for the French team. Deschamps now has a credible option in central defense, in addition to the Upamecano – Konaté pairing and the injured William Saliba who missed this gathering. The competition for places will be tough as Lucas Hernandez, a key player for Deschamps, also stood out.
Warren Zaïre-Emery, back in the spotlight? An excellent performance in midfield for the Paris Saint-Germain youngster, who was not favored during previous gatherings. Not selected in September and October 2025, Zaïre-Emery was even called back by the U21 team later that year. However, his performance on Sunday seems to remind us of his potential.
With a sparkling first half, “WZE” put in a lot of effort in recovery and made excellent passing choices for his attacking partners. Despite a quieter second half, the player seems to have found his form in recent weeks.
With PSG, the 20-year-old midfielder is again a regular starter due to Fabian Ruiz’s injury. Valuable for his work rate and intelligence on and off the ball, Zaïre-Emery could be a useful element in the French midfield, although he is not yet a favorite for a spot in the starting lineup at the World Cup.
The final decision will be made by Didier Deschamps on May 14, 2026, when the coach reveals his list of 26 selected players to travel to the Americas next summer.
