No pressure.
No training.
Just 24 hours to recharge.
After defeating Morocco 2-0 in the World Cup quarter-finals in Boston, France’s national team was given a full day off before traveling to Dallas for their semi-final against Spain. According to L’Équipe, the break helped the squad relax both mentally and physically ahead of one of the biggest matches of the tournament.
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The players made the most of their free time.
Some enjoyed meals with family at local restaurants, while others explored downtown Boston, visited shops or simply spent time with loved ones.
Young stars like Bradley Barcola, Warren Zaïre-Emery and Rayan Cherki were spotted enjoying the city away from the spotlight.
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Back at the team hotel…
The atmosphere was just as relaxed.
Several players spent time with their children, and the hallways even turned into the scene of playful pillow fights, highlighting the close bond within Didier Deschamps’ squad.
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Despite the light mood, the focus never disappeared.
Defender Ibrahima Konaté explained that the group has developed the ability to « switch » instantly—from joking and laughing together during downtime to becoming fully competitive once match day arrives.
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The team then traveled to Dallas, where preparations for the semi-final against Spain entered their final phase.
With confidence high after eliminating Morocco, France is now just one win away from another World Cup final.
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Sometimes, the best preparation isn’t another training session—it’s giving players the freedom to disconnect, recharge and return mentally ready for football’s biggest stage.
