Kylian Mbappé admitted France fell short in their bid to reach a third consecutive World Cup final after a 2-0 semi-final defeat to Spain.
The France captain endured a frustrating evening in Dallas as Spain’s disciplined defence restricted his influence, limiting him to few meaningful opportunities. Mbappé registered just 15 touches in the first half — the fewest of any forward on the pitch — and was unable to produce the spark Les Bleus needed.
Despite the setback, the race for the Golden Boot remains alive. Mbappé and Argentina captain Lionel Messi are tied on eight goals, though the Frenchman holds the advantage on assists (3-2). Both will have one final opportunity to add to their tally before the award is decided.
France will now turn their attention to Saturday’s third-place playoff, while Mbappé continues his pursuit of a second successive World Cup Golden Boot.
