Deschamps backs referee and says France are ready

Didier Deschamps has said he expects the Argentina referee for France's World Cup quarter-final against Morocco to perform to the same standard as François Letexier's team in the previous match.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, the France coach said his focus was on Morocco, not the officials. He added that he respects referee appointments and hopes the match is handled fairly for both sides.

Deschamps also said Kylian Mbappé is mentally ready after the racist abuse aimed at him, while Aurélien Tchouaméni is improving and could train later in the day. He said Michael Olise's yellow card situation remains unchanged after FIFA confirmed its earlier decision.

On Morocco, Deschamps pointed to their run to the Africa Cup of Nations final and their ability to keep possession and attack. He said France will need to be effective in both boxes and called the tie a tactical battle.

He also rejected any idea of revenge for France's 2022 meeting with Morocco, saying mistakes belong to players rather than referees and that the past cannot be changed.