Portugal v France: Why are Kylian Mbappe and co struggling at Euro 2024?

Portugal created more chances, dominated possession and stamped their authority on a largely forgettable tie in Hamburg.

Rafael Leao caused problems down the left-hand side, while Bruno Fernandes came close on a few occasions in the second half.

A strong defensive display – helped by another colossal performance by Arsenal’s William Saliba – helped France battle through.

“I will always defend my players. Kylian [Mbappe] and Antoine [Griezmann] are not playing their best football but, despite this, we’re here,” said Deschamps.

“Of course both are supposed to make us more efficient and we lack efficiency but they are hanging in there. They are part of a team.

“Beyond their football qualities, there is still a team strength that is alive. We had good substitutions and it’s worked up until now.”

It has worked so far but will it work again when France face in-form Spain, who overcame Germany in their quarter-final and have emerged as main contenders?

Ferdinand said France “ruined the game” against Portugal because of their gameplan, while ex-midfielder Danny Murphy said Deschamps “could be more adventurous”.

“You do feel with the quality of the French players, Deschamps could be more on the front foot. Maybe the argument is the success he’s had is proof enough,” added Murphy.

But, while criticism remains, belief has grown within the France squad.

With their impressive defensive record recently – just one goal conceded in seven matches – they have been able to stay in games.

Now, just two matches away from European glory, Dembele believes they can go all the way, even if they are not at their best.

“Since 2014 the French national team has done very well apart from at Euro 2020 when we went out in the last 16,” said Dembele.

“Our character has got stronger and we show solidarity. There have been difficult matches this year. We have reached the semi-finals and that shows how solid the team is.

“From a defensive point of view, we did a great job. That’s how we won the match. We were solid and we kept that.”