France captain Kylian Mbappe sparked injury fears after missing a portion of training ahead of the World Cup semi-final – but is set to be fit to face Spain in Dallas.
Mbappe was absent from a period of France’s preparations ahead of a mouthwatering meeting of European heavyweights, though manager Didier Deschamps insisted that his absence was planned and insignificant.
“Yes, he trained,” Deschamps stressed when asked if his captain was involved. “He is allowed to do 10 minutes in one drill instead of 15.”
The Real Madrid forward was substituted late on in the quarter-final win over Morocco after appearing to suffer a slight ankle injury, though played down concerns after the game.
In more good news for Deschamps, Mbappe’s club colleague Aurelien Tchouameni has bolstered France’s midfield options as he nears full fitness following a hamstring complaint.
Tchouameni had been unable to be involved in his nation’s last two outings at the World Cup, but could come into consideration for a role in the semi-final.
“For the last match, the risk was too high,” Deschamps said. “He is better today, although we cannot say he is 100 per cent recovered. His last game was two weeks ago, but that is not prohibitive. The important thing is that he is available.”
Spain beat France in the semi-finals of Euro 2024 on their way to continental success two years ago. Manager Luis de la Fuente is not thought to have any fresh injury concerns.
