France coach Didier Deschamps has provided an update on the status of veteran striker Olivier Giroud ahead of his side's UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final against Spain. Giroud, who turned 38 earlier this year, has been a key part of the France squad for over a decade, helping them win the 2018 World Cup. However, his role in the current Euro campaign has been more limited, with the Atlético Madrid forward often featured on the bench rather than as a starter. "He hasn't been a regular starter, but he comes off the bench," Deschamps admitted in his press conference. "It's not that he's been less effective than the other players. His presence in the semi-final will depend on the situation of the match."
Deschamps was keen to stress that Giroud's potential inclusion does not depend solely on his ability to create chances. "It's not just about creating chances, it's also about converting those chances into goals," the France coach explained. "That's an area we need to improve as a team." France's attack has been a bit inconsistent so far at Euro 2024, despite the team's qualification for the last four.
They have scored 10 goals in their five games, but have also had some disappointing performances where they have struggled to overcome determined opponents. Giroud's experience and aerial prowess could prove valuable against a tough Spanish backline. The 6'4″ forward has scored 51 goals in 123 games for his country, making him France's second-highest scorer behind Thierry Henry. "Olivier is a player who has contributed enormously to the national team over the years," Deschamps said. "Even if he is not always a starter, he remains an important part of our team and our plans. We will see how best to use him against Spain."
The France coach acknowledged that managing veteran players like Giroud becomes more difficult as they get older. “It’s about finding the right balance, making sure we get the best out of our experienced players while integrating young talent,” Deschamps explained. Ultimately, the decision on Giroud’s involvement against Spain will likely depend on the specifics of the match situation and the tactical demands Deschamps feels his team needs. But the iconic French forward looks set to play a role, even if it’s off the bench, as France aim to reach the Euro 2024 final.
The highly anticipated semi-final between Spain and France will take place today, 9 July, with kick-off at 22:00 Moscow time. The winner of this mouth-watering encounter will qualify for the 2024 European Championship final, where they will face either England or the Netherlands. The reigning European champions are Italy, who triumphed over England in a dramatic penalty shoot-out at Wembley Stadium in the Euro 2020 final. That final went to penalties after the two teams could not be separated after 120 minutes of play. The Azzurri's success that night in London marked their second continental title, having won the Euro in 1968.
In the other semi-final, England will take on the Netherlands in what promises to be another thrilling encounter. Both teams have impressed throughout the tournament and will be desperate to book their place in the final, with the chance to lift the trophy in front of their adoring fans. As for the Spain v France match, it has all the makings of a classic. These two footballing powerhouses have a long and storied history, having met on numerous occasions on the biggest stages. Their most recent clash came in the 2021 UEFA Nations League, which saw Spain emerge victorious with a 2-1 win.
However, France will be eager to exact some revenge and reach their second consecutive European Championship final. Led by the ageless Olivier Giroud and the mercurial Kylian Mbappe, Didier Deschamps’ side will be confident of progressing, having already overcome tough opponents like Germany and the Netherlands earlier in the tournament. On the other hand, Spain have looked formidable throughout the tournament, playing a stylish, possession-based brand of football that has overwhelmed many of their opponents. The likes of Pedri, Gavi and Dani Olmo have been instrumental in La Roja’s run to the semi-finals, with the team yet to taste defeat in the competition.
Spain's possession-oriented approach has drawn comparisons to the iconic Barcelona sides of the late 2000s and early 2010s, with their ability to control the tempo of the game and stifle their opponents a hallmark of their performances. Manager Luis Enrique has instilled a clear identity and playing philosophy within the team, and they will be hoping to use that to their advantage against the French. One of the key subplots of this semi-final clash will be the battle between the two goalkeepers, Spain's Unai Simón and France's Hugo Lloris. Both men have been in excellent form throughout the tournament, making crucial saves to help their respective teams progress. Simón, in particular, has drawn much praise for his composure and decision-making, with the Athletic Bilbao keeper emerging as one of the standout performers of the Euros. Conversely, Lloris has continued to display the leadership and experience that have made him a staple of the France team for more than a decade.
