Deschamps Fumes Over 'American Football' Tackle on Olise in France Win

Deschamps' Outrage Over Physical Challenge

Didier Deschamps was left fuming despite France's 3-1 victory over Colombia, launching a scathing assessment of the South Americans' physical approach. He told the fourth official: "We're not in American football!" and added that there were no serious consequences, fortunately.

Olise Escapes Serious Injury

The main flashpoint came in stoppage time when Michael Olise was wiped out by a lunging challenge. Deschamps insisted that only the winger's quick reflexes prevented a long-term layoff, saying:

"About the tackle on Michael, if he doesn't jump, he can break his leg! We're in a friendly match... aggressiveness is okay, we know what it is, but it goes a little beyond that."

Squad Rotation and World Cup Preparations

The intensity of the friendly reminded Deschamps why he rotated his squad heavily, keeping many players on the bench to avoid collisions like the one Olise suffered. He noted that with domestic titles, European honours and the Champions League approaching, the final stretches at club level are the most important period for his players.

• France won 3-1 over Colombia in a US mini-tour friendly.
• Desire Doue scored a maiden international brace; Marcus Thuram added a close-range header.
• The World Cup roster announcement is scheduled for May 14.