France coach urges players to make up for Euro defeat on Sunday

France coach Didier Deschamps urged his side to seize their chance of redemption in the World Cup final after admitting he has still not got over the pain of defeat in the Euro 2016 final. “Finals have to be won because we have still not got over the one we lost two years ago,” said Deschamps. “It was exceptional. I’m very happy for my players, we showed character and the right mentality, it was very hard for us tonight.

“We worked hard defensively. We had to take advantage a bit more in the counter-attacks. But congratulations to my players and my staff. I feel very proud for my group,” said Deschamps, who is aiming to join Germany’s Franz Beckenbauer and Brazil’s Mario Zagallo as the only men to have won the World Cup as both a player and a manager.

“We have prepared well, I can brag a little about that,” said Deschamps. “The older players all played their role as leaders and the youngsters brought their energy. I have a squad with a good blend. No one complains and they all realise the importance of the competition. When there was an opportunity to be seized, they took it.”

Samuel Umtiti, who scored France’s goal, said: “I’m not going to get much sleep tonight,” he said. “It’s going to be hard to nod off. But I don’t need to anyway; I’m not tired. I don’t care.” France’s win recalled their 1998 semi-final triumph against Croatia, when another defender was the hero of the hour: Lilian Thuram. “I hope it’s a sign,” smiled the No5, before adding: “It is different, though. Let’s take one thing at a time. We need to rest up for Sunday now.”