WC 2026 ⚽ · 15 July 2026

Deschamps questions FIFA after France's World Cup exit to Spain

France coach Didier Deschamps questioned FIFA's decision to appoint Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton after his side's 2-0 World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain. France disputed the penalty awarded to Spain but Deschamps admitted his team were "a step below technically". Spain coach Luis de la Fuente rejected the criticism, saying both teams had experienced inconsistent refereeing during the tournament.

By BriefTea Editorial · 15 July 2026 at 7:44

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How do referees train? What is 'a step below technically'? What is a World Cup semi-final? Who picks World Cup referees?

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