An interview with the chief of the North African branch of the al-Qaeda militant organisation, Aqim, has lead Burkina Faso authorities to order for France 24 broadcasts to be taken off air.
“France 24 is not only acting as a mouthpiece for these terrorists, but worse, it is providing a space for the legitimisation of terrorist actions and hate speech,” Burkina Faso’s minister of communication, Jean-Emmanuel Ouedraogo, said in a statement.
He said the government had therefore decided “in all responsibility, and in the name of the superior interest of the nation, to suspend sine die the diffusion of France 24 programmes on national territory”.
France 24 aired the interview with Aqim’s leader Yezid Mebarek earlier this month, after France killed his predecessor in an air raid.
The relationship between Burkina Faso and France has soured since the coup in October last year.
Burkina Faso expelled French troops who had been unsuccessfully fighting the Islamists, inviting Russian mercenaries in their stead.
Ronald Koeman expected more from his Netherlands team after they were beaten 4-0 by France in his first game back as head coach.
Koeman took over for Louis van Gaal, and he will have been as surprised as anyone to see his team fall behind 2-0 after only eight minutes at the Stade de France, and 3-0 after 21 minutes.
Speaking to NOS Sport after their humiliating defeat in their Euro 2024 qualifying opener, Koeman admitted he had not expected such a disparity, despite his team finishing with 59% possession and just one fewer shot than the hosts (12-11).
“I did not take into account that the difference would be so great,” he said. “I expected more from everyone. The team performance was below average.
“We lost the ball 20 metres from our own goal. That is a place where you should never lose the ball. And then France is, of course, a very good team that is lurking and immediately benefits.”
0-4 – @OnsOranje lost a match by a four-goal margin just twice in the last 60 years: a 0-4 defeat against France at the Stade de France tonight and a 0-4 defeat against France at the Stade de France on 31 August 2017. Déjà-vu. pic.twitter.com/8SoReErhy6
“Memphis lost the ball, but Mbappe of course finishes it off great afterwards. So it was not just us. It was also the class of France,” Koeman conceded.
The Netherlands were without some key players including Matthijs de Ligt, Cody Gakpo and Sven Botman with viral infections, but Koeman was in no mood for excuses.
“Of course the preparation has not been ideal. That has left its mark,” he said. “But there have been just too many moments today when we failed.
“We now know where we stand and have learned from this. It can therefore also turn out positively. We are going to learn and improve, including us as technical staff.”
Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk added: “We didn’t get there, lost the duels and lost the ball too often. The second goal was a set piece, but the other goals came because we handed them the ball. France has so much quality, they immediately punish that.
“We will analyse the defeat and take a good look at what we can do better, but it is clear we are very disappointed.”
The Netherlands host Gibraltar in their second Group B game on Monday.
Didier Deschamps, the head coach of France,announced on March 22 that Kylian Mbappe will succeed Hugo Lloris and Raphael Varane, who retired with a silver medal from the 2022 World Cup.
Mbappe’s eligibility for the captaincy has been questioned on a number of occasions, but Konate called his teammate’s detractors “crazy” and said that Mbappe is an excellent leader both on and off the pitch.
The Liverpool defender told Eurosport;
“Even if I had a say in this, it would not change a thing. It’s the coach’s decision but I’m very happy. Honestly, Kylian deserves it. We’re unanimous on this. He deserves it with what he’s done at the World Cup and with PSG as well.
“He’s a very good leader, on and off the pitch. He’s a young lad who loves to laugh and have fun, nothing more. He’s a very good person. Some may think he’s arrogant. It’s something I was asked about in my club and elsewhere. To them, I say ‘Are you crazy? He’s so nice.’ Of course, he will be a good skipper.”
On a Mediterranean shore, researchers found the earliest instance of a tiny biting insect.
The preserved fossil was discovered on the island of Mallorca and depicts a gnat larva that traveled across the ground about 247 million years ago, before the continents started to form.
The creature’s skull and digestive system can be seen, and researchers can even determine how it breathed.
It outdates the previous record-holding gnat, discovered in France, by several million years.
The insects are part of a class of creatures known as dipterans, which also includes midges and mosquitoes.
Scientists believe the latest find could hold the key to revealing how life recovered from the Earth’s biggest ever mass extinction, which wiped out 95% of all species around 250 million years ago.
He said: ‘We have been able to look at some of the adaptations by the first dipterans to the post-apocalyptic environment at the beginning of the Triassic, for instance, a breathing system that is still found in different groups of insects today.’
Researchers were excited to see the preserved external breathing structures (or spiracles) of the fossil (Picture: CN-IGME CSIC/SWNS)
The larva has been named after Josep Juárez, the man who discovered it during a palaeontological survey in the area near the small harbour of Estellencs at the northeast of Mallorca.
It will be called Protoanisolarva juarezi, or ‘Juárez’s ancestral anisopodoid larva’.
The first author on the study is Dr Enrique Peñalver, who works for the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) at the Spanish Geological Survey (CN-IGME).
He said: ‘While I was inspecting it under the microscope, I put a drop of alcohol on it to increase the contrast of the structures, and I was able to witness in awe how the fossil had preserved both the external and internal structures of the head, some parts of the digestive system, and, most importantly, the external openings to its respiratory system, or spiracles.’
Last month, the oldest example of a well-preserved vertebrate brain was found in the head of a 319 million-year-old fish that was pulled out of an English coal mine around a century ago.
In central Paris, protesters and police have once more exchanged blows over the French government’s proposed pension reforms.
Police fired tear gas to disperse the thousands of protesters who set fires and some of whom tossed firecrackers at them.
Since President Emmanuel Macron chose to enact the divisive measures to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 without a vote, there have been two nights of disturbance.
No-confidence motions have been filed against his government in response.
The first was signed by independents and members of the left-wing Nupes coalition in parliament, while a second came from the far-right National Rally party.
Both are expected to be debated early next week.
Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally MPs in parliament, called the decision to push through the pension changes “a total failure for the government”.
Police made dozens of arrests during the unrest at Place de la Concorde, not far from the parliament building.
Protests also took place on Friday in other French cities – notably Bordeaux, Toulon and Strasbourg.
“We won’t give up,” one demonstrator told AFP news agency. “There’s still hope that the reform can be revoked.”
Another told Reuters that pushing the legislation through without a vote was “a denial of democracy… a total denial of what has been happening in the streets for several weeks”.
The government has said the changes to pensions are essential to ensure the system is not overburdened and prevent it collapsing.
But many people, including union members, disagree and France has now seen more than two months of heated political debate and strikes over the issue.
Transport, public services and schools have all been affected, while a rolling walkout by waste collectors has seen thousands of tonnes of rubbish left on the streets of the capital.
Fuel deliveries have also been blocked and there are plans to stop production at a large refinery in Normandy in the coming days.
“Changing the government or prime minister will not put out this fire, only withdrawing the reform,” said the head of the moderate CFDT union, Laurent Berger.
Didier Deschamps, the head coach,has declared Kylian Mbappe as the front-runner to be the next captain of France on Thursday.
Hugo Lloris’ retirement from international football means that Deschamps will need a new captain for the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifying matches against the Netherlands and the Republic of Ireland.
Following the World Cup, where France lost to Argentina in the championship game, Lloris resigned from his position as a national team player. Mbappe, the tournament’s top scorer, is regarded as possessing leadership qualities.
“There are some that I consider possible,” said Deschamps. “Kylian is one of them.
“This will go through discussions with them before I make my decision. There is a responsibility in relation to being captain, with a little more important responsibility, but I want to have this discussion internally before I make my decision.”
Deschamps cast doubt on Adrien Rabiot being in the picture to lead Les Bleus.
He said of the Juventus midfielder: “Even if he has some experience, we know him well, as it is he has a possible form of leadership. But the captaincy, I don’t know if he really wants it deep down. To let him stay as he is already will be very good.”
Deschamps left out Axel Disasi and Matteo Guendouzi as he named a 23-player group for the games at home to the Dutch on March 24 and away to the Irish on March 27.
He could hand first caps to Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana, Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram and Lens goalkeeper Brice Samba, who all earned call-ups.
Khephren Thuram joins brother Marcus in the squad, with the sons of France great Lilian in contention to feature alongside each other in the national side.
Deschamps summoned Milan veteran Olivier Giroud, with the 36-year-old having elected not to retire from France duty after the World Cup, where he became the team’s all-time record scorer.
“As long as he maintains his level of performance with his club and remains eligible for selection, he is there,” Deschamps said.
A string of players Deschamps could have called upon are sidelined due to injury, including Ousmane Dembele, Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante and Christopher Nkunku.
Deschamps said of Pogba and Kante: “I always remain positive and knowing NG and Paul, they will do everything to become competitive again.”
Looking at the qualification task facing France, Deschamps said: “We must not tell ourselves that we are already qualified for the Euros because we were in the final of the World Cup. We must not rest on our laurels.”
In order to increase attempts to stop tiny boats from crossing the Channel, Britain will grant France about half a billion pounds over the next three years.
Rishi Sunak has promised to transfer Paris £541 million, or £478 million, to pay for the new package.
Many French law enforcement officials will be hired as part of it, and a new detention facility will be built there.
Following his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the UK-France summit on Friday at the Elysee Palace in Paris, Mr. Sunak made the announcement about the package.
The leaders spoke of a ‘special bond’ between the United Kingdom and France (Picture: Reuters)Emmanuel Macron and Rishi Sunak pose with ministers during a French-British summit at the Elysee Palace in Paris (Picture: Reuters)
But there was no sign of the returns agreement with France that the Government desires as Mr Sunak makes ‘stopping the boats’ one of his top priorities.
Mr Sunak was speaking in Paris following the announcement of the Illegal Migration Bill, which has already faced backlash from various charities.
It will stop those arriving from claiming asylum, seeking citizenship or returning to the UK in the future.
The Bill will push ‘the boundaries of international law’, Home Secretary Suella Braverman had told reporters.
The legislation is likely to get a rough ride in the Lords, as the upper chamber considers whether to amend the legislation.
If the Government does not accept the changes, then a lengthy back and forth could delay the implementation.
In the House of Commons, Ms Braverman had said: ‘The need for reform is obvious and urgent.’
She added: ‘They will not stop coming here until the world knows that if you enter Britain illegally you will be detained and swiftly removed.’
A group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dungeness, Kent, after being rescued by the RNLI following a small boat incident in the Channel (Picture: PA)Huge protests have been held in response to the migrant crisis (Picture: Tom Maddick / SWNS)
The plans have been criticised by refugee groups, who say they are unworkable and will only make the system more costly and chaotic.
Patrick Ryan, Chief Executive of leading modern slavery charity Hestia, said today: ‘We need to be tougher on the organised criminals who are exploiting vulnerable people, not on the victims.’
The UK has already committed more than £300 million to France in the last decade to help tackle unauthorised migration.
More than 3,000 people have already made the perilous sea journey this year, with almost 46,000 arriving by unofficial routes in 2022.
That is despite Mr Sunak and Ms Braverman announcing a £63 million package to increase patrol officers by 40% four months ago.
Despite weeks of demonstrations and strikes that drew thousands of workers, the French Senate decided to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64.
The proposal to raise the retirement age in France by two years, to 64, was approved by the Senate. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 201 to 115.
The vote was held in the midst of widespread strikes and protests, which have paralysed many industries because employees in the public sector and other workers opposed President Emmanuel Macron’s proposal.
What is the deal?
The French government is looking to realign the country’s pension system despite strong opposition from labor unions, saying that it is financially unsustainable otherwise.
On top of pushing retirement age to 64, Macron is seeking to incerase the period of payment required to qualify for a full state pension.
Macron’s government argues that the unpopular measures are needed to shore up the scheme for the future.
Despite clearing the Senate on Thursday, the bill is still bouncing between France’s chambers of parliament.
President Emmanuel Macron’sadjustment of pensions also needs to be approved by the lower houseof the French parliament, the National Assembly, where majority support might not be as easy to come by.
The lower house is also working on proposed amendments in the form of a compromise plan that might also be sent to the Senate for a vote.
Strong opposition
The increase of retirement age and the proposed changes to the pensions face stiff opposition from parts of French society.
Left-wing politicians voiced anger after the Senate voted in favor of the reforms.
“Your name will forever be attached to a reform that will set the clock back almost 40 years,” Socialist Monique Lubin told Labor Minister Oliver Dussopt.
Labor unions have promised to increase pressure on the government by calling for mass action by workers across different sectors.
Fuel deliveries, schools, trains, and flights are being disrupted by the demonstrations.
Dock workers have joined strikes in a bid toconvince Macron to change his stance on the bill that he has championed in both of his presidential campaigns — he gave up on the proposed reforms amid the onset of the Covid pandemic in his first term.
Most other European countries have already hiked the retirement age to 65 or over, with France’s retirement system among Europe’s and particularly western Europe’s most generous.
France’s new Africa plan, launched by French President Emmanuel Macron, calls for more local personnel to administer its facilities while reducing the number of French troops on the continent.
It happens only a few weeks after Moscow offered to provide more military assistance and training to nations in West Africa.
As more international countries compete for influence on the continent, Mr. Macron unveiled the new approach prior to a four-nation African visit.
French military installations in Africa, according to President Macron, are remnants of the past.
Yet, he asserted that his nation shouldn’t be held responsible for the defeat of extremist organizations in the Sahel.
French forces, who had been fighting against militants in the region for more than a decade, pulled out of Mali last year after the country invited in the Wagner group.
Mr Macron described the group as the life insurance of failing regimes.
French troops were also asked to leave Burkina Faso in January amid a growing anti-France sentiment.
Mr Macron’s newly unveiled strategy is meant to redefine France’s relationship with Africa as competition from Russia and China grows.
Before beginning his visit to four African nations on Monday, French President Emmanuel Macron is anticipated to lay out a new Africa policy.
He is anticipated to travel to Angola, Congo-Brazzaville, the neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon for an environmental meeting, and then Angola.
It takes place as Paris tries to stave off the region’s growing influence from China and Russia.
In several of its former colonies in the Sahel, there has been a strong anti-French attitude.
Burkina Faso announced the official conclusion of the French military intervention in the country a week ago after giving France a month to withdraw its 400 special forces.
In Mali, French troops withdrew from the country after the military government there started working with the Russian private military contractor Wagner.
The Russian group has also been operating in the Central African Republic.
After being sexually assaulted, a woman bit off her attacker’s tongue and gave it to the police as Genetic proof.
The 57-year-old woman was walking her dog in Avignon, a city in the Provence area of southeastern France, at around 4am on Sunday when a man started following her.
The man in his 30s allegedly approached the woman along Rue Diourbel in the Saint-Jean neighbourhood before attempting to hug and kiss her, according to France Bleu.
She wrestled her attacker off and bit off his tongue when he attempted to slid his hands down her pants.
The woman went home after the incident before alerting the authorities
Carrying the flesh home with her, she headed back out with her son to a local police station and gave them the tongue.
The man, originally from Tunisia and now living in France illegally, was arrested by officers at the scene.
He reportedly told investigators the woman was the person who jumped him.
The man will appear in court next Wednesday and will be forced to leave France.
In 2014, a woman in the UK similarly bit off her attacker’s tongue and kept it in her mouth to preserve crucial DNA evidence.
Adele Barber was walking home from a doctor’s appointment in January when a man brushed up against her on the street.
She shrugged it off at first but the man then ran up beside her before shoving her against a wall and sexually assaulting her.
‘He tried to kiss me and forced his tongue in my mouth,’ Barber told This Morning in 2015.
‘I thought this has left him vulnerable, I’m just going to bite down as hard as I can and it will show it’s not consensual in any way shape or form, get as much DNA as I can and try and cause enough pain to get this guy off me.’
In France, a young teenager who is accused of fatally stabbing his teacher in front of frightened students said he was “possessed.”
Soon after the incident in a private Catholic high school in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a seaside town near the border with Spain, the 52-year-old female Spanish instructor passed away from a single stab wound caused by a “big knife.”
Police sources told French television station TF1 that the 16-year-old suspect claimed to have heard voices urging him to kill her after being apprehended.
A classmate, Inès, 16, said the attacker seemed ‘very calm’ as he approached the teacher and plunged the knife into her chest ‘without saying a thing’.
‘There had never been any problems between him and the teacher in class’, Inès added.
Another pupil said the attacker had got up from his seat in the middle of the lesson holding a wad of papers inside which he had concealed the weapon.
The suspect’s classmates were ‘aware that [he] had psychological problems’ and at least one believed he had been on medication for stress.
Pupils arrived at the school gates on Thursday to lay floral tributes to the well-liked teacher
The teacher was said to have worked at the school for many years and was well-liked by colleagues and pupils.
France’s education minister, Pap Ndyiae, described the school of 1,000 pupils as a ‘peaceful establishment’ where ‘no one could have foreseen such a terrible tragedy’.
Announcing he was on his way to Saint-Jean-de-Luz to support the community, he tweeted: ‘Immense emotion following the death today of a teacher at Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin high school in Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
‘My thoughts go to their family, colleagues and students.’
Pupils, parents and teachers gathered to mourn the teacher, who has not been named
Investigators say terrorism is not being considered as a motive, with a potential psychiatric disorder currently thought the most likely factor.
The beheading of French history and geography teacher Samuel Paty, 47, by a student in 2020 received worldwide attention after authorities described it as an ‘Islamist terrorist attack’.
Abdoullakh Abouyezidovich Anzorov, 18, who attended another school, travelled to Mr Paty’s town and murdered him in the street after seeing a video falsely claiming the teacher had asked pupils to leave before showing them a cartoon of the Prophet Muhammad.
It later emerged the video was made by the father of one of Mr Paty’s pupils and was based on lies she which she told him to deflect from her bad behaviour.
Despite the fact that energy prices rose to previously unheard-of heights, 2022 was a dismal year for France’s state-owned power provider EDF, which suffered record yearly losses of €17.9 billion (£16 billion).
Energy price caps for French consumers had a significant negative impact on EDF’s profits, as did the forced shutdown of many of its nuclear power plants for maintenance.
The losses are the worst in more than 20 years and rank third in the history of French corporations.
Debts owed by EDF have risen to €64.5 billion.
The losses are in marked contrast to EDF’s UK-based business, which made an underlying profit of £1.12bn supplying electricity and gas to five million households.
In France, President Emmanuel Macron’s government responded to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine by imposing a tariff “shield” for consumers, limiting energy companies to a 4% rise in 2022 followed by 15% in 2023, keeping inflation lower than in other European countries.
But it meant that EDF had to sell power to French consumers at a loss, while UK consumers paid far more for their energy. EDF has around 80% of France’s electricity market.
French industry has not seen such poor results since 2002, when Vivendi Universal and France Telecom both posted losses above €20bn for the previous year.
“The 2022 results were significantly affected by the decline in our electricity output, and also by exceptional regulatory measures introduced in France in difficult market conditions,” said Chief Executive Luc Remont, who said EDF’s priority was now to put the company back on track. He said core earnings would be significantly higher in 2023.
EDF’s nuclear output in France fell by 30% to its lowest since 1988 as more than half of its 56 ageing nuclear power stations went offline for repairs, which had been delayed because of the Covid-19 pandemic. France has the biggest fleet of nuclear plants in Europe.
The outages meant that France became a net importer of electricity for the first time in decades.
EDF’s financial woes have various causes, but another major factor is an obligation it has to sell a quarter of its production at a fixed price to its competitors.
The system known as Arenh (Regulated Access to Historic Nuclear Electricity) was devised in 2010 in order to satisfy the EU, which was worried about EDF – with its massive nuclear capacity – becoming a monopoly provider.
It meant the French electricity market was able to open up to competition, but EDF says it has forced the company into the absurd situation of subsidising its competitors.
In 2022 things became “surreal” in the words of one former CEO. Because of the soaring cost of electricity on the European market, EDF’s own generating capacity hit by technical problems, and with the government extending the low price guarantee to customers – EDF was having to buy in electricity at €100 a unit, and sell it to rivals at €46.
And many of these competitors, EDF argues, aren’t real players at all but simply market traders.
Three former CEOs have described the system as “a poison pill” and have blamed the EU and Germany for rigging the system against France’s interests.
Although the French state already controls 84% of EDF, the government has begun a process to fully nationalise the company. Major changes are likely, not least to Arenh.
President Macron has spoken of a renaissance in the nuclear industry, with plans for six new reactors to help France reach carbon neutrality by 2050, in line with EU aims.
France is recalling its ambassador to Burkina Faso, a day after it announced that its military mission there was to end.
The French foreign ministry said Luc Hallade was returning for consultations on the state of relations between Paris and its former West African colony.
There have been weeks of demonstrations against the French presence in Burkina Faso, whose military rulers have been seeking military assistance from Russia to help defeat an Islamist insurgency.
The nation’s equality council issues a warning about the prevalence of sexual violence, noting that younger generations are the most vulnerable.
In its annual report, an equality watchdog established by the government claims that five years after the #MeToo movement began, French society “remains very sexist in all of its spheres.”
A national “emergency plan” was demanded on Monday by the High Council for Equality between Women and Men in order to combat “the massive, violent, and sometimes lethal consequences” of sexism. The council also raised concerns about the high rates of sexual violence that women report.
One-third of women who responded to a survey the council had commissioned said their partners had pressured them into having sex they did not want to have.
About one in seven respondents said men had forced sex on them, and a similar number reported having been hit and shoved by their partners, the council said.
Sylvie Pierre-Brossolette, the council’s president, expressed particular concern about sexism among younger men who had “bathed in social media, digital [technology], pornography”.
She said sexism must be ”fought from the youngest of ages”.
The council will present its findings to French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday.
“Young people in particular are brought up digitally on these scenes of mundane violence, of relations between men and women that are completely of domination and dominated and that has impregnated society,” Pierre-Brossolette said, speaking to the broadcaster France Inter.
“Uprooting sexism is very hard,” she said.
The council found that at least80 percent of women believe they are treated worse than men on account of their sex.
It said the number and severity of these incidents were rising in the public, professional, private and digital spheres. It saw a paradox in public opinion, which recognised the existence of sexism but did not reject it in practice.
Among men aged 25 to 34, almost a quarter said they sometimes feel compelled to use force to be respected.
Across all age groups, 40 percent of men thought it was normal for women to stop working to look after children.
Progress in some areas
The council proposed a 10-point plan of action, which includes tougher regulation of online content.
Other suggestions included making training against sexism obligatory in workplaces and banning adverts that suggest some children’s toys are for boys and others for girls.
While the findings seemed grim, France has made significant progress in some areas.
Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne is only its second woman to hold the post, and parliament’s lower house also installed its first female president, Yael Braun-Pivet, in June.
Macron’s government has increased police resources against domestic violence and offered free birth control to all women up to age 25.
Politicians are also working to constitutionally guaranteeFrance’s abortion rights with a bill intended to prevent any of the rollbacks in reproductive rights seen elsewhere, including in the United States.
Still, the equality council described the overall situation for women in France as “alarming”.
“Sexism is not retreating in France,” the council’s report said. “On the contrary, some of its most violent manifestations are getting worse, and the young generations are the most affected.”
Olivier Giroud intends to extend his contract with Milan, and he is also not yet prepared to end his international career with France.
The 36-year-contract old’s with the Serie A team expires in June, and since Les Bleus were defeated by Argentina in the 2022 World Cup final, there have been concerns about his future with his country.
Hugo Lloris and Karim Benzema have previously announced their retirement from the national team, but Benzema missed the game in Qatar due to injury.
Giroud, who finished the tournament as France’s all-time leading scorer, has no intention of doing the same.
“For the moment I continue with the national team. I was struck by the fact that Hugo has decided to leave, our relationship is special,” he told Canal Football Club.
“Anything can happen, I have not withdrawn from the international stage and for this reason I remain callable.
“I have to understand if I still want to wear the blue shirt, which means a lot to me, I want to take some time before deciding.”
Giroud has faced similar questions around his club future, as his deal with Milan expires at the end of the season, but he is keen to continue at San Siro.
“I want to renew with Milan, with the victory of the Scudetto I entered the hearts of the fans,” he added.
“I’m talking to the club, if there is a chance to finish my career at a high level at Milan I will. I could choose an exotic destination; I’ve always liked MLS.”
Milan sit second in Serie A, 12 points adrift of leaders Napoli, ahead of Tuesday’s clash against Lazio.
The French unions have conducted a day of widespread strikes and protests over President Macron’s proposals to raise the retirement age on Thursday, putting the reform agenda on the line.
A new bill due to go through parliament will raise the official age at which people can stop work from 62 to 64.
Intercity and commuter train services are expected to be badly disrupted.
Many schools and other public services will be shut. At Orly airport in Paris, one in five flights has been cancelled.
On the Paris metro only the two driverless lines will work normally.
Large demonstrations drawing tens of thousands are expected in Paris and other cities, where police will be out in force in case of violence from ultra-left “black bloc” infiltrators.
Under the proposals outlined earlier this month by Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne, from 2027 people will have to work 43 years to qualify for a full pension, as opposed to 42 years now.
Hailed by the government as a vital measure to safeguard France’s share-out pension system, the reform is proving deeply unpopular among the public – with 68% saying they are opposed, according to an IFOP poll this week.
All the country’s unions – including so-called “reformist” unions that the government had hoped to win to its side – have condemned the measure, as have the left-wing and far-right oppositions in the National Assembly.
“On Thursday the walls of the Élysée palace must tremble,” Communist Party leader Fabien Roussel said on Tuesday.
Because his Renaissance party does not have a majority in the Assembly, French President Emmanuel Macron will be forced to rely on support from the 60 or so MPs of the conservative Republicans party. Though in principle in favour of pension reform, even some of them have warned they could vote against.
With the parliamentary process expected to take several weeks, Mr Macron faces a rolling campaign of opposition, with further days of action likely in the days ahead. The worst outcome for the government would be rolling strikes in transport, hospitals and fuel depots – effectively bringing the country to a standstill.
Political analysts agreed the mood of the country was hard to gauge, so it was impossible to predict whether the scale of the movement would be enough to force the president into a retreat. If that happened, it could mark the end of any serious reforms in this, his second term.
On the one hand, inflation, the energy crisis and constant reports of run-down public services have left many people feeling anxious and irascible. President Macron’s poor image outside the prosperous cities contributed to the “yellow-vest” insurrection four years ago, and could well do so again.
But on the other hand, pollsters have also identified a sense of resignation among many people, who no longer identify with “old-school” social movements such as the unions specialise in. Many will also be too concerned about the loss of a day’s income to go on strike.
The prime minister invoked the principle of “inter-generational solidarity” to justify the decision to make people work longer. Under the French system, very few people have personal pension plans linked to capital investments.
Instead the pensions of those who are retired are paid from the same common fund into which those in work are contributing every month. Workers know they will benefit from the same treatment when they retire.
Image caption,The reforms have sparked comparisons between Macron and the UK’s former prime minister Margaret Thatcher
However, the government says the system is heading for disaster because the ratio between those working and those in retirement is diminishing rapidly. From four workers per retiree 50 years ago, the ratio has fallen to around 1.7 per retiree today, and will sink further in the years ahead.
Nearly all other European countries have taken steps to raise the official retirement age, with Italy and Germany for example on 67 and Spain on 65. In the UK it is currently 66.
President Macron made an earlier, and more ambitious, attempt to reform the system at the end of 2019, but pulled the plug when Covid hit. This second plan was part of his re-election manifesto last year – a key argument deployed by the government in the battle for public opinion.
To palliate the effects of the reform, Élisabeth Borne has promised easier ways to retire early for people in dangerous or physically demanding jobs; steps to encourage older people back into the workforce; and a higher guaranteed minimum pension.
The opposition argues the system is not technically in deficit at the moment, so there is no urgency to act. It says there are cost-saving alternatives to making people work longer, such as cutting pensions for the better-off.
It also says the brunt of the reform will be borne by the poorest. These are people who tend to start work earlier in life, so have normally earned the right to a full pension by the age of 62. Now they will have to work two extra years for no added benefit.
This is the seventh French pension reform since President François Mitterrand cut the retirement age to 60 in 1982.
Every subsequent attempt to reverse that change has led to mass opposition on the street – though in most cases the reform did in the end go through. For example, in 2010, Nicolas Sarkozy raised the retirement age to 62, despite weeks of protests.
Having taken time to announce a decision following that defeat, Lloris confirmed his retirement in an interview with L’Equipe on Monday.
“There comes a time when you have to know how to hand over,” he said, before referencing deputy Mike Maignan.
“I don’t want to own [the position]. I’ve always said and repeated that the France team doesn’t belong to anyone, and we all have to make sure that this is the case, me first.
“I think that there remains a team ready to continue, and there is also a goalkeeper who is ready.”
Maignan appeared set to push Lloris for the number one shirt in Qatar, only to join a long list of France stars who missed the tournament through injury.
Lloris kept only a single clean sheet at the finals, although that came in the semi-final against Morocco.
He retires with eight World Cup clean sheets, behind only countryman Fabien Barthez and Peter Shilton (both 10) since 1966.
“I’d rather go out at the top than wait for a decline or [face] too much competition,” Lloris added. “There is also a family choice;I feel the need to spend more time with my wife and children.”
Didier Deschamps has consented to continue leading France till June 2026.
On Saturday, the French Football Federation (FFF) announced the news.
After a remarkable 3-3 draw at Lusail Stadium, France advanced to the World Cup final in Qatar, where they were defeated by Argentina on penalties.
In July 2012, Deschamps was named France’s head coach, succeeding Laurent Blanc.
Under Deschamps’ guidance, France made it to the 2016 Euro final on home soil but fell to Portugal in overtime. They did not experience these difficulties in Russia two years later, as they went on to win the World Cup twice.
Despite having key players like Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, and Paul Pogba injured, France nonetheless advanced to the final in Qatar despite a terrible performance at the delayed Euro 2020 last year.
Deschamps will now lead Les Bleus through Euro 2024. The 2026 World Cup will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 8 to July 3 of that year. He also holds the Nations League championship among his accolades.
Under Deschamps, France has played 139 games, winning 89 of them. He will still have his assistant coaches on staff.
Following the announcement, Deschamps said: “With the president [Noel La Graet], we reached an agreement for an extension until 2026. I thank the president.
“In Qatar, we were very close to obtaining what we wanted, the title of world champion. There were a lot of positives.
“I want to thank the technical staff, the whole staff. It means a lot of things. On returning to France, I realised the emotions and the passion that this World Cup has aroused.
“There was a lot of passion and support. You can count on me to maintain the France team at the highest international level.”
A French hospital had to partially evacuate after a man came in with an interesting case on Saturday night.
The New York Post reports that an 88-year-old man paid a visit to the Hospital Sainte Musse in Toulon, France because he had a World War I artillery shell wedged in his rectum. He needed the item removed—and many hospital staff was concerned it would explode in him. According to the French newspaper Nice-Matin, he told staff that the item was “demilitarized.”
This led the hospital to clear out part of its hospital from 9:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. local time, particularly “the evacuation of adult and pediatric emergencies as well as the diversion of incoming emergencies,” according to a hospital spokesperson. Intensive care patients were also moved to a tent outside. The incident “required the intervention of bomb disposal personnel.”
“We had to manage the risk in a reactive framework. When in doubt, we took all the precautions,” the rep said. Bomb disposal experts concluded that the object would not likely explode and “reassured us by telling us that it was a collector’s item from the First World War, used by the French military,” the hospital added.
Hospital doctors then attempted to extract the shell, which is about 8 inches long and over 2 inches wide. He had to undergo surgery to have it removed via his abdomen. He is on the mend and will likely fully recoup from the incident.
Three days after France’s loss in the World Cup final, Kylian Mbappe returned to Paris Saint-Germain training on Wednesday.
Mbappe became just the second player to score three goals in a World Cup final with his hat-trick against Argentina on Sunday.
However, it was only enough to secure a 3-3 tie and send a confused France squad to a penalty shootout, where they lost 4-2 despite Mbappe once more scoring from the spot.
After scoring once in France’s 2018 victory and setting a new record for most World Cup final goals, Mbappe won the Golden Boot award ahead of PSG teammate Lionel Messi.
Messi and Argentina continued to enjoy their victory over Qatar 2022 at home this week, while Mbappe quickly returned to club play after his 24th birthday on Tuesday.
Next Wednesday, PSG returns to competitive play in Ligue 1 against Strasbourg in an effort to increase their five-point lead atop the standings.
Kylian Mbappe’s younger brother, Ethan, has participated in mid-season friendlies with the PSG first squad and sat on the bench for Wednesday’s match against Quevilly-Rouen.
Following Sunday’s “cruel” World Cup final loss to Argentina, Didier Deschamps praised the crowd as France landed back in Paris.
After a thrilling 3-3 draw, Argentina defeated Les Bleus 4-2 on penalties, ending their hopes of being the first team to defend the World Cup since Brazil in 1962.
Despite Aurelien Tchoumeni and Kingsley Coman missing their attempts in the shootout, which resulted in a sad loss for Didier Deschamps’ team, Kylian Mbappe’s hat-trick helped Francecome back from 2-0 and then 3-2 deficits.
Nevertheless, after such a heartbreaking defeat, the team was welcomed by a sizable audience when they arrived back in Paris on Monday. Deschamps acknowledged his gratitude for the encouragement.
“It is our duty with the players to thank all these French men and women who supported us and gave a lot of strength to this France group,” he told TF1. “We shared fabulous emotions even if the ending is cruel and hurts.
“We must not forget all that this group did while having a lot of difficulties before and during the World Cup. They experienced fabulous emotions during this month of competition.”
Captain Hugo Lloris echoed his head coach’s sentiments after missing out on becoming the first man to skipper his team to two World Cup trophies.
“After the pain of yesterday, [the reception is] a little comfort,” Lloris said. “The most important thing is the recognition of the supporters, even if as an athlete we would have liked to have this gold medal and bring the cup back to France.”
France now turn their attentions to the 2024 European Championship in Germany, where they will be looking to win the tournament for a third time.
Lloris compelled his team to carry their strong mentality from Qatar into their next competition, adding: “Despite what happened before and during the tournament, we showed resilience, we remained a group. We have to keep that going for the Euros.”
Striker Olivier Giroud, who surpassed Thierry Henry as France’s all-time record goalscorer in Qatar, added: “We’re going to give each other a big hug and go on vacation to recharge our batteries, because there is a season to finish.
“It is always difficult to leave a group with which we spent a month and a half. We are like a family, like brothers.”
A soccer fan from Nigeria could not bottle up his emotions and took it out on his plasma TV shortly after Argentinadefeated France via penalties in an epic World Cup finals played on Sunday, December 18.
Moreover, it appeared the guy placed a huge bet on France to lift the trophy consecutively but things went in the opposite direction at the end of regulation time with scores tied at 3-3.
According to the report, he bet N1.2 million on France to win but Messi and his army had other plans for the French team vastly made up of players of African descent.
A video making the rounds on social media captures the moment the man’s wife expressed displeasure at his action as she confronts him for destroying the TV.
In response, he lamented about how much he bet and said she should not disturb him but the lady stated that he would be the one to replace the TV.
Bayern Munich has denounced the racist taunts directed at Kingsley Coman following France’s World Cup final loss to Argentina on penalties.
Coman had an impact after coming on as a 71st-minute replacement with France trailing 2-0 on Sunday. Kylian Mbappe’s hat-trick helped Les Bleus force the decisive penalty kicks at the conclusion of a thrilling 3-3 draw.
The winger, though, was the first shooter to miss in the shoot-out when Emiliano Martinez made a good stop to his right, and midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni missed the following attempt for France.
Following France’s 4-2 shootout loss, Coman received racist comments on social media, which prompted his club to denounce those responsible.
A statement issued via the Bundesliga champions’ Twitter account read: “FC Bayern strongly condemn the racist comments made towards Kingsley Coman.
“The FC Bayern family is behind you, King. Racism has no place in sport or our society.”
On the eve of the World Cup, the French Football Federation condemned racist messages addressed to midfielder Eduardo Camavinga following suggestions he was responsible for an injury suffered by Christopher Nkunku in training.
FC Bayern strongly condemn the racist comments made towards Kingsley Coman.
The FC Bayern family is behind you, King. Racism has no place in sport or our society. pic.twitter.com/9Mvhrt0Zc9
Kylian Mbappe has promised France would return to the largest stage after his World Cup final hat-trick failed to prevent Lionel Messi and Argentina from winning the tournament in Qatar.
Following a back-and-forth 3-3 draw at Lusail Stadium, Mbappe’s incredible treble—only the second to be achieved in a men’s World Cup final—ensured that France would have to go to a penalty shootout.
Kingsley Coman and Aurelien Tchouameni’s failure to score gave the Albiceleste a third championship, preventing him from winning a second World Cup. He then converted the first penalty in the shootout.
Mbappe, who turns 24 on Tuesday, was defiant in his first social media post after Les Bleus’ defeat on Monday, writing on Instagram: “We will return”.
Three-time World Cup winner Pele was among those to respond to Mbappe’s post, simply writing: “Merci”.
The Paris Saint-Germain attacker is one of only five players to score in both of the tournament’s championship matches, including Vava, Pele, Paul Breitner, and Zinedine Zidane. His total of four goals in World Cup finals is unmatched by any other player.
In an interview with Sky Sports on Monday, former France forward Louis Saha praised Mbappe’s performance and said it was exceptional for a player his age.
“It was stratospheric, it’s an unbelievable achievement for a young guy like him to do that on that stage,” Saha said.
“Everyone was looking for him, even Argentina were looking to defend him and doing everything to stop him. It was not possible.
“On the big stage, with all the pressure on his shoulders, he managed to do this.
“It’s sad for him because for such a young age, he would have written a unique story. Nobody has done something like this.
“With all respect to other players, legends of the game, this guy’s performance to maintain France’s dream… the quality of his attitude through the tournament, it was absolutely breathtaking.”
Following France’s loss to Argentina in the World Cup final, Didier Deschamps is scheduled to hold the first round of negotiations on his future as the team’s coach this week.
Although Deschamps’ contract is up, it is widely anticipated that a new one will be offered if he wants to continue and pursue success at Euro 2024.
It will take some time for the sadness of failing to win the World Cup a second time, four years after triumphing in Russia 2018, to sink in.
Deschamps’ future was therefore not a topic for discussion on Monday as the team traveled back to Paris.
However, French Football Federation (FFF) president Noel Le Graet does not want to waste any time, and he is seeking clarity so has promised to call Deschamps by Wednesday at the latest.
Le Graet told French broadcaster BFMTV on Monday: “I will call him tomorrow or the day after tomorrow when he has recovered, too. We will see each other as soon as possible, of course.”
Speaking in the aftermath of the final, Deschamps said on Sunday night in Qatar that a decision about his future was one for early in the new year.
Former Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has long been linked as the likely next national team coach, but he may have to wait a while longer if Deschamps decides he still has the hunger required for the job.
Former midfielder Deschamps has completed a decade in charge of Les Bleus, and said on Sunday when asked about his future with the team: “You’re not the first to ask. Even if we had won, I would not be able to answer that tonight.
“Of course, I am very sad for the players and staff, but I’ll have a meeting with the [FFF] president at the start of next year and then you’ll find out.”
You had a great World Cup and made a whole country get behind you 🇫🇷
France were beaten 4-2 on penalties after a dramatic 3-3 draw against Argentina, with Kylian Mbappe hitting two penalties in a rare World Cup final hat-trick but still ending on the losing side.
French president Emmanuel Macron told RMC Sport on Sunday he had encouraged the 54-year-old Deschamps to remain in post, saying: “Of course, I asked Didier Deschamps to continue, I want him to continue!”
Following his injury-related absence from France’s World Cup run, Karim Benzema has announced his retirement from international play.
On his 35th birthday, the Ballon d’Or-winning Real Madrid striker revealed that he would retire with France.
He wrote on Twitter: “I made the efforts and the mistakes it took to be where I am today and I’m proud of it!
“I have written my story and ours is ending.”
J’ai fait les efforts et les erreurs qu’il fallait pour être là où je suis aujourd’hui et j’en suis fier !
J’ai écrit mon histoire et la nôtre prend fin. #Nuevepic.twitter.com/7LYEzbpHEs
On the day of the competition, Benzema’s participation in the Qatar 2022 finals was ruled out due to a thigh injury he sustained during a France training session.
Benzema made his international debut in March 2007 against Austria and went on to score 37 goals in 97 games for France. However, Benzema’s international career was characterized by a protracted absence.
The former Lyon frontman, who was out of favor at the time due to an ongoing blackmail probe, notable missed the World Cup victory in Russia 2018.
He was hoped to contribute significantly to the trophy defense this time, but Benzema had been bothered by a niggle in the months prior to the competition, which did not bode well.
He was battling to prove his fitness but suffered an apparent injury recurrence during his first full training session with Didier Deschamps’ squad.
Benzema underwent an MRI at a Doha hospital and it was decided he faced three weeks of recovery, leading to him leaving the France squad and not returning.
Deschamps said at the time: “I’m extremely sorry for Karim who had made this World Cup a major objective.”
One day after suffering a shocking final defeat to Argentina, losing 4-2 on penalties following a 3-3 game, Benzema made his declaration as France was leaving Qatar for home.
For a France team that came agonizingly close to becoming the first team to win back-to-back World Cup crowns since Brazil 60 years ago, Kylian Mbappe and Olivier Giroud proved to be a productive front pairing, so Karim Benzema’s absence scarcely registered.
In response to rumors that he might rejoin the France team two days before the championship game, Benzema wrote a mysterious comment on Instagram that simply said, “That doesn’t interest me.”
He has returned to training with Madrid ahead of the resumption of their season, and may have been fit to play a part in the final, having not been formally removed from France’s squad list.
Asked if Benzema could make a shock return for the final, however, Deschamps said: “I don’t want to answer you. It’s a stupid question.”
Now there will be no return in the future either, Benzema signing off from France duty three short of a century of international caps.
President Emmanuel Macron claims that Kylian Mbappe made France proud with a “extraordinary” performance despite Les Bleus’ devastating World Cup final loss to Argentina.
After falling behind by two goals at the Lusail Stadium, France were doomed to a demoralizing defeat, but Mbappe scored twice in a span of 97 seconds to force overtime.
Mbappe scored a late penalty to become just the second player—after England’s Geoff Hurst in 1966—to score a hat-trick in a men’s World Cup final after watching teammate Lionel Messi give Argentina the lead back.
While shoot-out misses from Kingsley Coman and Aurelien Tchouameni crushed France’s hopes of retaining the trophy, Macron – who was seen talking with Mbappe after the defeat – said the forward had made his country proud.
“We were very far behind at the end of the first period. It’s already happened, there have been comebacks like that, but it’s very rare in the history of football,” Macron told RMC Sport.
“We came back tremendously. It’s extraordinary what Mbappe did, but the whole team were hungry again. I believed in it immensely.
“Afterwards, we performed a second miracle by coming back from nowhere. We had match point.
“Mbappe is a very great player, but he is young, I told him he was only 23. He was top scorer at this World Cup. He won a World Cup [in 2018], he made a final.
“I was as sad as him. I said he made us very proud and in the end we lost a football match, we went to nothing. That’s sport.”
Mbappe’s treble took him to 12 World Cup goals in his career, drawing him level with Pele’s tally and making him the youngest player to reach double figures at the tournament, aged 23 years and 363 days.
The France forward also became just the fifth player to score in two World Cup finals, after Vava (1958, 1962), Pele (1958, 1970), Paul Breitner (1974, 1982) and Zinedine Zidane (1998, 2006).
Following France’s loss to Argentina in the World Cup final, Hugo Lloris claims that it is “not the time” to talk about his future in the international arena.
Argentina ultimately prevailed in a six-goal thriller, as the all-time leading appearance holder for the Les Bleus was unable to save any of the penalties he was presented with in the shootout.
It has been questioned whether Lloris, who is now 35 and has been a member of France’s national team for 14 years and has been as captain since 2010, will remain among Didier Deschamps’ players.
However, the captain batted away those queries and believes the result will take time to digest, telling TF1: “Now is not the time to answer those questions.
“It’s a painful night for all the players, the staff, the management and all the supporters, even if we achieved great things.
“It has to be an experiment for the future. It will take a little time for everyone to digest it.”
Lloris also expressed his belief that the France squad did everything they could to emerge as victors, highlighting the response after the break following what was a poor first-half display.
“We were too reactive. It was almost a boxing match, we surrendered blow for blow. The only regret we can have is that we may have missed our first half,” he added.
“Despite that, we didn’t give up, we believed in it until the end. It took a winner, it was played on penalties.
“It’s always cruel to be on the wrong side. But we will have given everything from beginning to end in this competition. We come out empty, it’s been almost a month of competition.
“In this final, we could have dropped at 0-2 but we continued to believe until the end, we were able to turn the game around. It’s football.
“We must congratulate the Argentines who made a great tournament, a great final. The match could have swung either way, but we were too reactive.”
After seeing France’s dramatic World Cup final loss to Argentina on penalties, Didier Deschamps will decide on his future in the new year.
France twice came from behind in an exciting 3-3 tie after extra time at Lusail Stadium thanks to Kylian Mbappe’s hat-trick, the second to be scored in a men’s World Cup final.
However, Lionel Messi, a teammate of Mbappe‘s from Paris Saint-Germain, won the coveted prize after Kingsley Coman and Aurelien Tchouameni both missed their attempts in the shootout.
The setback will probably rekindle rumors about Deschamps’ future, with former France great Zinedine Zidane long considered a potential successor.
Deschamps, however, will take his time to weigh up whether to extend his 10-year stay with the two-time world champions.
“You’re not first to ask. Even if we had won, I would not be able to answer that tonight,” Deschamps said at his post-match press conference.
“Of course, I am very sad for the players and staff, but I’ll have a meeting with the [French Football Federation] president at the start of next year and then you’ll find out.”
After Angel Di Maria was knocked down by Ousmane Dembele’s challenge, Messi scored Argentina’s first goal in the championship, drawing ire from several France players.
After the game, Deschamps expressed his own displeasure with Szymon Marciniak’s performance as the referee, but he also congratulated Argentina.
Messi scored Argentina’s opening goal in the final after Angel Di Maria went down under Ousmane Dembele’s challenge, provoking an angry reaction from several France players.
Deschamps made his own frustration with the performance of referee Szymon Marciniak clear after the game, though he also offered his congratulations to Argentina.
“I need to be careful what I say. You saw as well as I did. It could have been worse, could have been better,” he said when asked about the officials’ display.
“There were some decisions that gave rise to discussion but that’s the case in every game. I said before the game that Argentina had been lucky, not that they were helped by decisions.
“I don’t want to take anything away from them, they fully deserve the title. It’s not because of decisions that they came out victorious, and I just discussed this with the referee.
“I don’t want to get into what was said, I just want to congratulate Argentina.”
French president Emmanuel Macron was seen speaking to Deschamps in the aftermath of Sunday’s defeat and he told RMC Sport he had encouraged the 54-year-old to remain in post.
“Of course, I asked Didier Deschamps to continue, I want him to continue! I told him he had to digest,” Macron said.
Pele, a legend of Brazil, has congratulated Argentina on their stunning World Cup victory and said Lionel Messi’s success was what “his trajectory deserved.”
Pele, who has recently been hospitalized, has been paying attention to the happenings at Qatar 2022 and stated that the late Diego Maradona would have enjoyed Argentina’s trophy victory.
The significant milestone for 35-year-old Messi means he now matches compatriot Maradona, who was the inspiration behind Argentina’s success in Mexico 86, by winning his first World Cup. In November 2020, at the age of 60, Maradona passed away.
“Congratulations Argentina! Certainly Diego is smiling now,” Pele wrote on Instagram.
Pele, 82, expressed sadness for Kylian Mbappe, who lost after scoring two penalties and a spectacular volley to clinch just the second hat-trick in a men’s World Cup final, following Geoff Hurst’s hat-trick for England against West Germany in 1966.
Following a Sunday 3-3 tie, Argentina won the trophy after a 4-2 victory in the penalties shootout, thanks to misses from Kingsley Coman and Aurelien Tchouameni.
Before he and Mbappe, a teammate from Paris Saint-Germain, both scored a penalty to start the shootout, Messi scored twice in a memorable game.
Messi was awarded the Golden Ball for the second time as the tournament’s best player, and Mbappe took home the Golden Boot for leading scorer with eight goals.
Three-time World Cup winner Pele hailed Mbappe’s feat of hitting the back of the net four times, including the shoot-out, and he also offered praise to Morocco, who finished fourth after becoming Africa’s first World Cup semi-finalists.
“Today, football continues to tell its story, as always, in an enthralling way,” Pele said. “Messi winning his first World Cup, as his trajectory deserved.
“My dear friend, Mbappe, scoring four goals in a final. What a gift it was to watch this spectacle to the future of our sport.
“And I couldn’t fail to congratulate Morocco for the incredible campaign. It’s great to see Africa shine.”
Lionel Messi has led Argentina to World Cup glory after beating France on penalties on Sunday.
This proved to be one of the most thrilling climaxes in final history.
Argentina won 4-2 in the shootout after a spectacular game which developed into the much-anticipated confrontation between the 35-year-old maestro Messi and his France opposite number Kylian Mbappe, who scored a hat-trick – the first in a World Cup final since 1966 – but still ended up on the losing side.
Messi looked to be securing the one major honour missing from his glittering collection in comfort as Argentina cruised into a two-goal lead, only for an explosive intervention from Mbappe turned a spectacular encounter on its head with two goals inside a minute late on.
Messi had given Argentina lead from the penalty spot in the 23rd minute following Ousmane Dembele’s foul on Angel Di Maria. It made him the first player in World Cup history to score in the group stage, last 16, quarter-final, semi-final and final of a single tournament.
He then contributed a delicate touch within a magnificent counter-attack that ended with Brighton’s Alexis Mac Allister setting up Di Maria for the second 13 minutes later.
Argentina were untroubled until the closing stages, only for Mbappe to give France a lifeline from the penalty spot with nine minutes left – then restore equality with a magnificent volley moments later.
Messi bundled Argentina back in front in extra time, but Mbappe completed his treble from the spot two minutes from the end of a frantic, chaotic added spell.
And so it went to penalties, with the two greats opening the scoring. But Argentina and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez saved from Kingsley Coman, before Aurelian Tchouameni missed, leaving Gonzalo Montiel to win the World Cup.
Messi, a World Cup winner at last, collapsed to his knees in the centre circle and was engulfled by jubilant Argentina team-mates.
Hugo Lloriswill be essential to France’s ambitions of making World Cup history as they are just one victory away.
He will become the only player to have won the championship twice if Les Bleus overcome Argentina.
Only two other countries—Italy (1934 and 1938) and Brazil (1958 and 1962)—have accomplished the feat.
We examine how Lloris can help France win the championship as we get ready for the tantalizing final against Argentina.
Mr Reliable
A reliable goalkeeper is a key component of any world-class side — and France have been set in this department since Lloris made his debut in 2008.
He was excellent at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, keeping three clean sheets and only conceding six goals in 540 minutes.
The 35-year-old has kept up those standards in Qatar, conceding only four times — though he may be disappointed to only have only kept one clean sheet.
Lloris’ experience — particularly of winning a World Cup final — will be invaluable for France as they seek to repeat the trick.
Hugo Lloris has been key to France’s run to the World Cup final
High praise
Before Lloris earned his record-equalling 142nd cap for Les Bleus in the World Cup last-16 clash against Poland, France manager Didier Deschamps heaped praise on his captain and compared him to the man whose record he was matching — Lilian Thuram.
He said: “Records are made to be broken.
“It’s the longevity of two exemplary players, two great professionals who have both kept themselves at a very, very high level.
“These records mean something. Some are more anecdotal than others, but this one speaks for itself.”
Stepping up
Hugo Lloris has conceded four goals at the World Cup so far
France had to dig deep in both their quarter-final against England and their semi-final against Morocco — but managed to emerge victorious on both occasions.
They endured spells where they were forced to defend deep and Lloris was required to make some important saves to keep his side in the game.
Against England, the captain made an impressive six saves overall — a real sign that he can step up when required for his nation.
In the final, the stopper will almost certainly be called upon again as Lionel Messi looks to fire Argentina to victory.
Error free
Lloris has been a reliable figure for most of his career but in recent seasons the veteran has earned a reputation for making unforced errors.
Despite an excellent tournament overall four years ago he made an unforgettable blunder in the final which cost his side a goal — thankfully for the Tottenham skipper, it did not impact the result.
In Qatar, however, the 35-year-old has not made a single error leading to a goal.
If Lloris can maintain his aura of steady calm for one more game, he could write himself into history as France’s greatest goalkeeper.
Demands in possession
Hugo Lloris frequently looks to play the ball long
The biggest criticism of Lloris’ game is his ability on the ball and his lack of fluidity in possession.
The France captain has only completed 70 passes at the tournament so far, which works out at just 14 per 90 — low even for a goalkeeper.
His passing accuracy is also just 56.91%, which can likely be explained by the fact that he primarily sends his kicks long.
However, Dechamps’ style masks that weakness with France ranking 11th at the World Cup for passes attempted per match (521.17) — Les Bleus’ boss will hope Lloris is not found out on the ball in the final.
Even though Lionel Messi may be the star of the show, Julian Alvarez could be crucial for Argentina as they aim to win the World Cup.
Although Lionel Scaloni did not start the match with the Manchester City striker, his performances have made him an irreplaceable member of La Albiceleste.
In the final on Sunday, where Argentina will try to defeat France and win their third championship, his danger in the last third will be crucial.
In advance of the World Cup match, we examine the factors that have led to the 22-year-old becoming his country’s starting No. 9.
Too good to ignore
Lautaro Martinez began the World Cup as Argentina’s first-choice centre forward.
The Inter Milan marksman has developed a fine relationship with Messi over the last few years and it made sense that he would continue playing that role in Qatar.
But sub-par performances against Saudi Arabia and Mexico saw Scaloni drop the 25-year-old in favour of Alvarez, who was impressing too much off the bench to be ignored.
The decision has paid off — the Calchin native has scored four goals in the 364 minutes he has played in Qatar.
Only the peerless Messi, with five strikes and three assists to his name, has contributed more to the cause.
Putting Croatia to the sword
Argentina forward Julian Alvarez has been on form at the World Cup
Hard-running and intelligent, Alvarez is the perfect foil for Messi in the final third but he exploded in his own right during Argentina’s dominant 3-0 semi-final victory over Croatia.
The striker won the penalty that Messi converted in the 34th minute to give La Albiceleste the lead and then scored twice himself to put the result beyond doubt.
Given his previous goals at this World Cup came in must-win games against Poland and Australia, it is safe to say that the former River Plate prodigy has a taste for the big occasion.
Alvarez has certainly not looked out of place since forcing himself into the side despite having never previously started for La Albiceleste at a major tournament.
Praised by Messi
Argentina forward Julian Alvarez often attacks the left side of the box
Considered the greatest footballer of all time by many, Paris Saint-Germain talisman Messi has exacting standards and needs his colleagues to meet them.
That is what makes the 35-year-old’s comments when asked who aside from him deserved to be named Player of the Match after Argentina’s victory over Croatia so impressive.
He said: “Every player did very well but if I have to choose, I would give this award to Julian. He had an extraordinary game”.
A boost for Manchester City
Alvarez’s excellent form could be a real boon to Manchester City as well as Argentina.
The Citizens are five points shy of current league leaders Arsenal ahead of the resumption of club football following the break for the World Cup — and a strikeforce of the Argentine and the on-fire Erling Haaland would strike fear into the hearts of many a Premier League defence.
The Argentine has impressed in his early form for City following his summer move from River but he only has 357 minutes of Premier League football to his name, scoring three goals.
Playing a key role in an Argentina side that could lift their first World Cup since the days of Diego Maradona could see him figure more prominently under Pep Guardiola.
World Cup final role
Argentina forward Julian Alvarez has scored four goals at the World Cup
Some of the greatest players in history have never played in a World Cup final — but Alvarez will do it at 22.
And he will play a key role, too. The centre forward’s selfless, hard-running style is the perfect counterbalance to Messi’s more relaxed approach.
But that does not mean that the City star sacrifices individual contribution in the final third — only Messi and Kylian Mbappe have outscored him in Qatar.
Nobody has been more accurate with their shooting than the youngster, who has hit the target with seven of his 10 shots (70%).
If a chance falls Alvarez’s way at Lusail Stadium on Sunday, he will be ready and waiting.
Despite having a record seven Ballon d’Or medals, which are given to the world’s finest player, Messi, 35, has never taken home the biggest team trophy in sports.
“People say France are favourites, but we have the advantage of having the greatest player of all time,” said Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
“We always like to hear the opponent is the favourite because we don’t feel superior or inferior to anyone.
“But, as I always say, we have the greatest player of all time. And with a good defence, we have many chances to reach our goal.”
France manager Didier Deschamps captained his country to World Cup victory in 1998 and then, as boss, guided them to another success in Russia four years ago.
He said: “I know Argentina, many people around the world, and maybe some French people, hope Lionel Messi could win the World Cup, but we’re going to do everything to achieve our objective.”
Can Messi help Argentina win World Cup for first time since 1986?
The final sees the tournament’s top two goalscorers go head-to-head in the race to win the Golden Boot. Both Messi and Mbappe have scored five times in Qatar, while France’s Olivier Giroud and Argentina’s Julian Alvarez are one goal behind on four.
Messi assisted Argentina in reaching the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil, but the Europeans ultimately prevailed 1-0 in extra time thanks to a goal from Germany’s Mario Gotze.
However, the star for Paris St. Germain has been the inspiration behind Argentina’s effort in Qatar.
He scored in the crucial 2-0 victory over Mexico after converting an early penalty in their opening match, which saw his nation suffer a shocking 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia. Argentina won Group C after defeating Poland 2-0. Messi also scored in Argentina’s 2-1 victory over Australia in the round of 16.
Argentina appeared to be in control of their quarterfinal match against the Netherlands after taking a 2-0 lead after 82 minutes, but Wout Weghorst scored twice for the Dutch, including an equalizer in the 11th minute of injury time to force extra time.
It eventually went to penalties but Martinez saved two spot-kicks as Argentina advanced, before a goal from Messi and two from Manchester City’s Alvarez gave them a routine 3-0 win over Croatia in the semi-finals.
Argentina have won the tournament twice, on home soil in 1978 and in Mexico in 1986, and are looking for their third success on Sunday.
“I’m already getting emotional because they’ve given everything sincerely,” said manager Lionel Scaloni. “Let’s hope we win the title and if it can’t be, they should be proud, because it’s a moment to enjoy.”
Sickness bug hampers France’s preparations
Mbappe, 23, is chasing his second World Cup success and has been instrumental in guiding France to the final. He scored once in their 4-1 win over Australia and twice in the 2-1 victory over Denmark as France reached the last 16 with a game to spare.
That enabled Deschamps to rest players and, despite losing 1-0 to Tunisia, they won Group D, with Mbappe on target twice more in the 3-1 last-16 triumph over Poland.
In the quarter-finals they faced Gareth Southgate’s England and took the lead through Aurelien Tchouameni, but Harry Kane equalised with a penalty. Olivier Giroud put France ahead and they won it 2-1 after Kane missed a second spot-kick.
France beat the tournament’s surprise packages Morocco 2-0 in the semi-final to reach their fourth World Cup final in seven tournaments, having won the competition in 1998 and 2018 and losing in the final in 2006.
But their preparations have been hampered with a sickness bug.
Midfielder Adrien Rabiot, defender Dayot Upamecano and winger Kingsley Coman have been among those struggling with illness.
“We’ve had a few cases of flu-like symptoms,” said Deschamps. “We’re trying to be careful so it doesn’t spread and players have made great efforts out on the pitch and obviously their immune systems suffer.
“We’re taking all necessary precautions, trying to make sure it doesn’t spread but we have had to take precautions against it.”
Match facts
They have met three times before at the World Cup. Argentina won both group matches in 1930 and 1978, but France were victorious in their only knockout encounter, winning 4-3 in the last 16 in 2018.
Argentina are competing in their sixth World Cup final, with only Germany (eight) participating in more. They won in 1978 and 1986 and lost in 1930, 1990 and 2014.
They could become the second side in World Cup history to lose their opening game and go on to lift the trophy, emulating Spain in 2010.
Messi can become the third Argentine player to win the Golden Boot at the World Cup after Guillermo Stabile in 1930 and Mario Kempes in 1978.
France have reached the World Cup final for a fourth time, all since 1998. This is twice as many as any other nation in this period.
Les Bleus are looking to become only the third nation to win back-to-back World Cups, after Italy (1934-38) and Brazil (1958-62).
Israel’s interior ministry says it has deported a Palestinian-French human rights lawyer after accusing him of security threats.
Salah Hamouri, 37, was escorted onto a flight to France by police early on Sunday morning, the ministry said.
A lifelong resident of Jerusalem, he was stripped of his residency rights after officials accused him of being a member of a terrorist organisation.
Mr Hamouri denies the charges and rights groups have condemned the move.
But in a statement, the interior ministry said Mr Hamouri had “organised, inspired and planned to commit terror attacks” against “citizens and well-known Israelis”.
Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked, part of the outgoing Israeli government, hailed the move as a personnel success.
“The sentence for the terrorist Saleh Hamouri has been completed and he has been deported from Israel,” she said in a statement.
“This was a long and protracted process and it is a tremendous achievement that I was able to bring about his deportation just before the end of my duties, using the tools at my disposal to advance the fight against terrorism.”
Mr Hamouri holds French citizenship through his mother. He held residency rights in Jerusalem, which can be revoked by authorities.
He works for Addameer, a Palestinian legal aid and prisoners’ rights group that was designated a terrorist organisation by the Israeli defence ministry in October 2021 along with five other Palestinian civil society groups.
The military said they were linked to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), a Palestinian militant group that Israel considers a terrorist organisation.
In March, Mr Hammouri was arrested and the Israeli military commander in the occupied West Bank ordered that he be held without charge or trial for three months under what is known as administrative detention.
After four months in detention, Mr Hammouri wrote a letter to French President Emmanuel Macron appealing for help. He was subsequently classified as “a prisoner of high risk” and transferred to a high security prison in central Israel.
In late September, he began a hunger strike to protest against his administrative detention. He ended it after 19 days, during which he was reportedly placed in solitary confinement.
Last month, he was informed he would be deported, but the expulsion was delayed as his lawyers contested the case. The Supreme Court rejected his appeal earlier this month.
Amnesty International condemned his deportation and said he was “paying a high price for his work as a lawyer for Palestinians”.
“The expulsion from the occupied Palestinian territories constitutes a serious violation of international law and the Fourth Geneva Convention and a potential war crime,” the body added. “It could also constitute a crime against humanity.”
And HaMoked, a Palestinian rights group, said the deportation set “a dangerous precedent” and constituted “a gross violation of basic rights”.
The French embassy in Jerusalem has yet to reply to a BBC request for comment.
South Africaninnovator, Ernest Mongezi Majenge is helping improve mobility for wheelchair users. His invention has earned him the nickname ‘wheelchair doctor.’ His wheelchair comes with grooves that enable it to be pulled up and down stairs, according to ThisAbility.
Majenge’s invention was born out of research to understand the challenges that wheelchair users face. He realized that accessing buildings with stairs but no elevators or ramps was a major struggle for wheelchair users. So he developed the idea to invent a wheelchair that can climb stairs.
Majenge started his company, 911 The Wheelchair Doctorand Manufacturing, in 2018, as a wheelchair repair service. He then moved into developing his off-road wheelchairs that will cater to people in townships, rural areas and on farms. “The wheelchair works by gripping onto the stairs to protect the user from falling off while someone easily pulls them up and down the stairs,” Majenge told ThisAbility.
He started his company after he won $1,500 in seed funding from Y-Beca and Transnet Matlafatso Centre at Wits University, which was sponsored by the Industrial Development Corporation. He began refurbishing old wheelchairs to make them stair-friendly. It takes Majenge 24 hours to put together all the parts needed for each product, Africanews.com reported.
“The secret of the wheelchair are the wheels,” he told the platform. “The wheelchair has been there for years but we only changed the wheels which has star wheels. We can also transform it to have the normal circle wheels that you can use it on a flat surface. It is a two in one wheels.”
His off-road wheelchairs are already making waves in the international market. According to him, he has received orders from France.
“So far we have in a day we can manufacture four wheelchairs and it depended on the order we get since it is a new start-up company. On the ruby side, there were 5 that were sold in France and in South Africa, there were only four,” he said to Africanews.com.
His innovative wheelchair has won him prestigious awards. He received the South African Breweries Foundation disability empowerment award and Transnet Matlafatso Centre pitching competition in 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Didier Deschamps, the head coach of France, is unfazed by the possibility that Les Bleus may interfere with Lionel Messi’s attempt to win the World Cup on Sunday.
Messi has already declared that the championship match at Lusail Stadium will be his final appearance at a World Cup.
In that sense, it is his final chance to win the single major award he has yet to take home, potentially solidifying his title as “best of all time.”
For many, Messi must win the World Cup in order for his legacy to surpass that of Diego Maradona, the legendary player for the Albiceleste.
As such, there is undoubtedly huge anticipation surrounding Argentina’s prospects in the final, but Deschamps – whose France side are bidding to become the first European side to retain the World Cup since 1938 – is not worried about the likelihood of it feeling like it is France against the world.
Asked if he got the feeling France were “alone” in that respect, Deschamps said: “I often get that feeling, but I’m fine being alone, that doesn’t bother me. These uncertainties always arise.
“We are here, we’ve done all we can to be well-prepared for the game against Argentina.
“Lionel Scaloni has also had some challenges; they lost their first match to Saudi Arabia, of course, but they are still here.
“And like us, we haven’t had to face everyone in this tournament, but in the games we’ve played, we’ve managed to come out as victors.
“I don’t have any particular worries or stresses for [the final]. I think when you prepare for a game like this, you need to keep your focus, remain composed, and with a World Cup final in particular you have the match but also the context around it.
Didier Deschamps, the head coach of France, claims that despite a sickness outbreak prior to Sunday’s World Cup final, his team is “remaining calm and focused.”
Due to an illness epidemic among the team, Les Bleus were without Adrien Rabiot and Dayot Upamecano for Wednesday’s 2-0 semi-final victory over Morocco.
After Deschampsindicated on Thursday that Kingsley Coman had felt under the weather, the French Football Federation announced on Friday that defense duo Raphael Varane and Ibrahima Konate had missed training due to illness.
At a press conference the day before the championship match versus Argentina, Deschamps was at ease and acknowledged that he was feeling good.
“I’m absolutely fine,” he said. “As for the players, I left quite early this morning, they were all still asleep so I have no recent updates.
“We are trying to manage the situation as well as we can, remaining calm and focused. I’ll get more information today and think about it today and maybe even tomorrow.
“I don’t want to go into details. I know it’s a subject that’s of interest to you and I fully understand that but we are doing our best to take precautions and adapt as necessary.
“We are trying to live with it without going too far, getting too carried away, just doing what’s necessary.
“We’d have preferred not to face this difficulty but we are facing it as best we can with our medical staff.”
France captain Hugo Lloris also seemed in fine shape when addressing the press, but also did not have any information on the condition of his team-mates.
“I have not got any more news since last night because everyone was still in their rooms when I got up, I haven’t seen anyone,” he said.
“I’m sure you’ll get more info by the next training session.
“We never really prepared for this type of thing, but we will try to get ready for the match the best we can.
“These are things we weren’t prepared for but we remain focused, and of course we are very excited about playing in a World Cup final.”
Just two days before France’s World Cup final match against Argentina, Karim Benzema sent a mysterious statement on social media claiming he is “not interested.”
Due to a thigh injury he aggravated in practice, Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema was ruled out of Qatar 2022 on the day of the competition.
There were rumors that the current Ballon d’Or winner, who had recovered from his injury and resumed training with his club, may rejoin the team.
However, asked if Benzema could make a shock return ahead of Sunday’s final, France boss Didier Deschamps said: “I don’t want to answer you. It’s a stupid question.”
Further reports from Spain on Friday claimed Benzema was unhappy to have been sent home in the first place and did not take kindly to Deschamps’ latest comments.
The 34-year-old has now posted an ambiguous message on social media, simply translated as “I’m not interested”, accompanied by an explosion emoji.
Former Lyon striker Benzema has scored 37 goals in 97 appearances for France.
Les Bleus are aiming to become just the third side – and first since Brazil in 1962 – to retain the World Cup trophy after beating Morocco 2-0 in the semi-finals to advance.
“Immigrants are over-represented in the French national team in the World Cup,” a far-right politician has said adding, “I do not think this team represent France”.
Marion Marechal is the niece of far-right politician Marine Le Pen, and belongs to the recently formed Reconquête party, whose name refers to Spain’s “Reconquista” period when Christians drove Muslim rulers out of the country.
Her comments ignore the fact that many black and Arab players were born in France, as well as the reality that the players – like millions of others in the country – are proud to be both French by nationality while also having roots in Africa or elsewhere.
Some have jokingly called FranceAfrica’s sixth team on account of having many footballers who boast African connections, and this image from Morocco World News
Following the illness of two additional crucial players, Ousmane Dembele says France is “taking precautions” ahead of Sunday’s World Cupfinal against Argentina.
Due to a sickness virus in the camp, Adrien Rabiot and Dayot Upamecano were absent for Les Blues’ 2-0 semi-final victory over Morocco on Wednesday.
Kingsley Coman, who had a fever the day of the game, and Rabiot were both left off the roster, and Upamecano served as an unused substitute.
It’s believed that both Upamecano and Rabiot have fully healed in time for this weekend’s championship game at Lusail Stadium.
Raphael Varane and Ibrahima Konate, two central defenders, reportedly trained separately from the team on Friday after becoming ill, according to numerous sources.
Two days before the final, Aurelien Tchouameni and Theo Hernandez are rumored to have missed the entire session while they heal from minor ailments.
Despite potentially losing more players to illness and injury, Dembele insists France are not overly concerned at this stage.
“It doesn’t worry us,” he said at a news conference on Friday. “With Dayot, after a day I went to see him with my mask on and he was much better.
“For the players and the staff, it doesn’t worry us, we are just taking precautions.
“We are not afraid of the virus. Dayot and Adrien had headaches and stomach aches. I made them honey and ginger tea. We hope everyone will be better for the final.”
France are already without the likes of Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante, Karim Benzema, Presnel Kimpembe, Lucas Hernandez and Christopher Nkunku through injury.
Les Blues are aiming to become just the third ever side to retain the trophy, while Argentina are seeking a first world crown in 36 years.
Following Morocco‘s victory over Les Blues in the semifinal, about 400 people from France and Belgium were detained.
266 people, including 167 in Paris, the capital of France, had been detained following the violence, according to a spokeswoman for the French police.
Paris prosecutors revealed that 40 people from the right-wing spectrum were arrested, some of them carrying stabbing weapons.
According to reports, the defendants planned to confront the Moroccan fans, as they were aiming to go to the famous Champs-Elysées, where the French victory celebrations took place.
Meanwhile, the Belgian news agency “Belga” reported earlier in the day that nearly 100 people were arrested in the Belgian capital, Brussels, following clashes after the match.
Belga said, citing police, that the detained fans face charges of disturbing public order, damaging two police cars and possession of prohibited fireworks.
The Atlas Lions, who became the first African country to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup were unable to make another history after suffering a 2-0 defeat against the European country.
Goals at either side of the half from Theo Hernandez and Randal Kolo Muani ensured France made it back-to-back finals at the global stage.
Morocco will face Croatia in the third and fourth place playoff on Saturday. They will become the first country from Africa to finish third if they beat Croatia.
Meanwhile, France will be hoping to defend their title against the Albeceleste of Argentina on Sunday at the iconic Lusail stadium.
Szymon Marciniak will officiate Sunday’s World Cup final between France and Argentina, according to FIFA.
Marciniak has already presided over matches involving both of the winners in Qatar; he oversaw France’s 2-1 victory over Denmark in the group stages and Argentina’s 2-1 triumph over Australia in the last 16 matches.
In his two matches in this year’s tournament, the Polish official, who also officiated matches at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, has only issued five yellow cards. He has not yet issued a single penalty or red card.
Antonio Mateu Lahoz, who issued 15 yellow cards during Argentina’s victory over the Netherlands in the quarterfinal of the World Cup, is one of the referees who have come under fire for their performances in the knockout rounds.
Regarding Cesar Ramos’ officiating during Wednesday’s World Cup semifinal loss to France, the Moroccan Football Federation has filed a protest with FIFA.
The third-place playoff between Croatia and Morocco will be overseen on Saturday by Abdulrahman Al Jassim of Qatar, according to FIFA.
According to the local government, a fire in an apartment building outside of Lyon, France, has claimed the lives of ten people, five of them children.
In a statement issued by authorities, it was stated that a “sizeable fire” had started in a seven-story apartment building in Vaulx-en-Velin.
Ten other people reported minor injuries, and four people are in critical condition.
170 firefighters who were dispatched to the scene at 03:25 put out the fire (02:25 GMT).
According to local officials, two firefighters were among the injured.
Olivier Klein, the minister delegate of cities and housing for the Borne region, tweeted on Friday morning: “The provisional tally sends chills down your spine.
The minister of the interior, Gerard Darmanin, said the cause of the fire is still unknown and praised the work of the firefighters who rescued people in “extremely difficult conditions”.
He added that the children who died were all aged between three and 15.
Mr Darmanin added that an inquiry into what sparked the firewould be launched later on Friday.
In Montpellier, a southern French city, a 14-year-old boy was run over and killed shortly after France defeated Morocco in theWorld Cup semi-final.
After the match, according to the authorities, he was hit by a car and later died in the hospital.
Images shared on social media showed a car covered in a French tricolour, which was later seized by onlookers.
The driver then accelerated into two teenagers, seemingly in a panic.
The 14-year-old was struck and suffered a cardiac arrest as the driver turned around and sped away.
“Immense sadness that a sporting event should end in total tragedy,” said local MP Nathalie Oziol, who expressed her sympathy with the boy’s family.
The local prefect in the southern Hérault area said the car was later found abandoned not far from the scene of the accident, and police have begun searching for the driver.
#FRAMAR d’un côté les supporters marocains de l’autre les supporters français. Tirs de mortiers à plein régime pic.twitter.com/H3HI4xJFP5
The incident happened in Montpellier’s north-western district of La Paillade, around half an hour after the final whistle in Qatar, where France beat Morocco 2-0.
Tensions between France and Morocco supporters briefly spilled over in the centre of the city as flares were lit and police responded with tear gas. France has a large Moroccan community of some 1.5 million people.
Celebrations in cities across France were largely peaceful,although police used tear gas to halt trouble involving far-right youths in the centre of Lyon.
Ten thousand police were deployed across the country and a reported 167 arrests were reported nationally.
England striker, Harry Kane has admitted that their loss in the game against Franceis a big blow to the England national team.
In a tweet he noted that the defeat “hurts and it’ll take some time to get over it.”
England’s dream of winning the World Cup was short lived after they were kicked out of the tournament by France. The 2:1 defeat sent the Three Lions home.
Absolutely gutted. We’ve given it everything and it’s come down to a small detail which I take responsibility for. There’s no hiding from it, it hurts and it’ll take some time to get over it but that’s part of sport. pic.twitter.com/lw5Esl4fnA
Harry Kane scored one penalty to equalise after Aurelien Tchouameni’s opener, but after Olivier Giroud put Les Bleus back in front, Kane spurned his second chance from the spot to send the Three Lions crashing out at the quarter-final stage.
The England captain was distraught after the game and accepted responsibility for the miss, but his manager Gareth Southgate backed his striker for big performances along the way.
“Absolutely gutted. We’ve given it everything and it’s come down to a small detail which I take responsibility for. There’s no hiding from it, it hurts and it’ll take some time to get over it but that’s part of sport,” Harry Kane tweeted.
France defeated England 2-1 to advance to the World Cup semifinals despite Harry Kane’s late penalty miss.
With a penalty kick in the 54th minute, Kane erased Aurelien Tchouameni’s goal, but he was unable to duplicate the feat with seven minutes left, scorching high over the crossbar.
In between the spot-kicks, Oliver Giroud’s header had given France an advantage that proved decisive as they advanced to a last-four clash with Morocco on Wednesday.
The defending champions started the brighter and Giroud ought to have done better after 11 minutes than head Ousmane Dembele’s cross straight at Jordan Pickford.
England did not heed the warning and Les Bleus took the lead from their next serious attack – Kylian Mbappe starting the move down the left before drifting inside to feed Griezmann and his lay-off was swept home by Tchouameni from 20 yards.
England responded well with Kane foiled by Tottenham team-mate Hugo Lloris, making a record 143rd appearance for his country, before VAR came to France’s rescue by adjudging Dayot Upamecano’s trip on Kane took place outside the box
.
Gareth Southgate’s men remained on the front foot after the break, Lloris tipping over Jude Bellingham’s 20-yard drive.
A deserved equaliser finally arrived after 54 minutes with referee Wilton Sampaio pointing to the spot after Bellingham and Bukayo Saka combined and the latter was tripped clumsily by Tchouameni. Kane won the battle of nerves with Lloris by firing high into the top left-hand corner.
Pickford saved well from Adrien Rabiot but England countered with a Saka shot and a Harry Maguire header that clipped the outside of the post.
Having come close seconds before with a volley that brought a smart save out of Pickford, Giroud restored France’s advantage with 12 minutes to go. Griezmann moved to the left flank and whipped in a delicious cross for the Milan striker to head in via Maguire’s shoulder.
England squandered the opportunity to equalise for a second time five minutes later when Sampaio, after consulting the VAR monitor, awarded a penalty for Theo Hernandez’s senseless barge into substitute Mason Mount.
Kane, who would have broken Wayne Rooney’s England record with his 54th international goal had he scored, blasted well over the top.
Substitute Marcus Rashford almost levelled with the last kick of the game, a free-kick that flashed narrowly over the bar.
What does it mean? Not to be for unfortunate England
England had more shots (16-8), more shots on target (8-5) and a higher xG (2.32 to 1.19) but France’s tournament nous saw them through.
With the draw opening up, they will fancy their chances of retaining their title next Sunday.
Glorious Griezmann inspires France
The Atletico Madrid man was the best midfielder on show. He assisted both goals, the second with a wonderful cross for Giroud and generally bossed the game from the centre of the field.
He made 43 passes and a team high 38 accurate passes. A master at work.
Walker does his job
So much of the build-up had centred on the battle between Kyle Walker and France dangerman Mbappe.
For the most part it was a battle won by the Manchester City full-back with Mbappe fading as the game went on.
What’s next?
It’s the end of the road for England while Morocco lie in wait for Didier Deschamps’ France side.
The foreign minister of France has traveled to the Ivory Coast to meet with President Alassane Ouattara and his administration to discuss trade and security.
Speaking in the economic capital Abidjan on Friday, Catherine Colonna said France will remain at the side of its former French colony “in all areas.”
Around 900 French soldiers are stationed in Ivory Coast and France is one of its biggest investors.
“France believes in the potential of Ivory Coast,” she said.
“It is ready, willing – and has shown it – to accompany its progress, especially through the programme that has worked very well and continues, the famous contract of debt reduction and development that allows us to be the first foreign investor in Ivory Coast, with good results.”
Colonna also met with her Ivorian counterpart Kandia Camara, who told her she was concerned about what she called “terrorists” crossing over from neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso.
Both countries are struggling to defeat Islamic insurgencies.
“Insecurity is everywhere”, but “in terms of security, we have always benefited from the support of France”, said Camara.
On Saturday the French foreign minister was due to meet Defence Minister Birahima Ouattara, who is the president’s brother, to discuss security issues.
Colonna also stressed that one of Ivory Coast’s challenges is to prevent young people from falling into the hands of jihadists by promoting growth. and providing employment.
And she promised to “make up for the delay” in issuing visas, especially for students.
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