France coach Didier Deschamps said he will “not change course” for Monday’s Nations League clash against Belgium in Lyon.
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France will not “change course”
France suffered a 3-1 defeat to Italy in Paris on Friday, marking a poor start to their Nations League campaign.
Despite the loss, Deschamps stated he will stick to his gameplan and continue experimenting with his lineup.
“The six Nations League matches must be used to introduce new players and distribute playing time,” he told the pre-match press conference.”
“If we had a different schedule and were playing World Cup qualifiers, I would not have chosen this course, that’s for sure. But I chose it because I believe that we have to go through it. I’m not going to change course.”
Deschamps to give playing time to his players
Bradley Barcola found the net within the first 12 seconds of the game, giving France an early lead.
Italy equalized after half an hour when Federico Dimarco volleyed home a backheel pass from Sandro Tonali.
Things went downhill for France in the second half, as Davide Frattesi and Giacomo Raspadori scored for Italy.
“I can’t be satisfied with the match against Italy, nor can the players. Tomorrow is another game, another context, a different team with the same obligation,” Deschamps added.
“The course I have taken is to give as much playing time to as many players as possible. Whatever the playing time, there is always pressure, you have to perform as well as possible.”
