WASHINGTON: France coach Didier Deschamps is excited about a high-profile showdown between Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland after the two stars were drawn in the same group for the 2026 World Cup.
France are placed in Group I with Norway and Senegal, with another slot to be filled by the winner of a playoff between Iraq, Bolivia or Suriname.
“It will be a great battle. Both teams have a lot of quality players, but Mbappe and Haaland are names recognised all over the world and they are among the top scorers,” said Deschamps.
Mbappe is currently showing exceptional form with 30 goals in 24 matches with Real Madrid and France this season, while Haaland has collected 33 goals in 24 matches with Manchester City and Norway.
Haaland led Norway’s comeback to win their qualifying group, qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1998.
France, meanwhile, is chasing a third world title after losing to Argentina in the 2022 final in Qatar.
The meeting with Senegal also brings back memories of the bitter episode in 2002 when they arrived as defending champions but lost in the opening match and were eliminated in the group stage.
Deschamps, who will end his 14-year tenure as manager after the tournament, reminded the players to stay focused.
“Every World Cup has its own story. We want to make sure this edition is as beautiful as possible.
“As France, we bring great status and high expectations. But we need to show respect and humility from the beginning,” he said.
If France emerge as group winners, they will face one of the best third-placed teams in the round of 32, before facing a tough road that is expected to find them with Germany in the round of 16.