France's Tchouaméni Responds To Larqué's Criticism With Strong Performance

On Sunday, March 24, 2025, the French national team staged a remarkable comeback against Croatia in the League of Nations, securing a place in the semifinals after a tense 2-0 victory followed by a 5-4 win in the penalty shootout. This victory not only showcased the team's skill but also served as a poignant reply to the harsh remarks made by football consultant Jean-Michel Larqué about the team's midfield.

After a disheartening 0-2 loss to Croatia in the first leg of the quarter-finals earlier in the week, Larqué did not hold back his criticism. He claimed, "Twenty years ago, the midfield was Vieira, Makélélé, Zidane. Now it’s Tchouaméni, Rabiot, and Guendouzi - you’re in Division 1 of district level! There’s no pool!" These comments stung, particularly for Aurélien Tchouaméni, who is an essential part of the squad and plays for Real Madrid. Following the second leg victory, he took to Instagram to express his thoughts with a touch of humor, posting, "From Division 1 of District to Final Four!"

The match at Stade de France was electric, with thousands of fans witnessing the French players' determination to rectify their previous performance. Aurélien Tchouaméni not only played a key role in midfield throughout the match but also stepped up during the penalty shootout, dispelling any doubts about his capability in high-pressure situations. Reflecting on missing a crucial penalty in the World Cup final against Argentina, he stated, "I wasn’t going to avoid penalties for the rest of my life. I knew I would get another opportunity, and since the 2022 final, I've been working even harder on penalties. Everyone misses penalties sometimes; you just have to stay focused." His practical approach and commitment were evident throughout the match, as he contributed to the team's seamless play and robust defense.

This match marked not just a temporary victory but also an affirmation for the team under the direction of coach Didier Deschamps, especially with Kylian Mbappé now serving as captain following the departures of veterans like Olivier Giroud and Hugo Lloris. The infusion of younger talent has stirred excitement among fans, many of whom were eager to see how this new roster might evolve and perform on the international stage.

Tchouaméni remarked about the team’s mindset heading into the match, emphasizing the importance of confidence: "If we don’t believe it, how can anyone else? We prepared ourselves well and made sure we communicated. Our goal was to show a different side of ourselves, especially building from our second half in Split. We added some flair, and in the end, I believe we deserved the win." His comments echoed a determination that resonated with fans, many of whom were still buzzing from the significant turnaround.

The defeat in the first leg had rattled supporters and critics alike, shaping a narrative that questioned the team’s depth and talent. The response from Tchouaméni and the team in the second leg correspondingly shattered those doubts, revealing a squad committed to both improvement and teamwork. Many players celebrated their first significant contributions in international play, including Michael Olise, whose stunning free-kick added to the triumphant atmosphere.

As the final whistle blew after the exhilarating penalty shootout, the camaraderie within the French squad shone through. There was a palpable sense of relief and joy as they realized their hard work and resilience had paid off. Tchouaméni’s sharp retort to Larqué’s criticisms, both on social media and in post-match interviews, has drawn attention to the ongoing discussion about the current strengths and weaknesses of the French midfield. "Roh, he could have at least said National!" Tchouaméni quipped when reflecting on Larqué's harsh assessments.

Despite the ups and downs, Tchouaméni's ability to perform under pressure and his sharp sense of humor have made him a player to watch as the team advances. The French side is aiming to reclaim its status on the international scene, and with upcoming matches lined up, fans are eager to see what this new generation can accomplish together. The echoes of Larqué’s punditry now serve as a backdrop to a player who has not only silenced critics but has also carved his place in the historic legacy of French football. As they look forward to the next stage of the League of Nations, anticipation builds among supporters who hope their team can harness this momentum and deliver even more unforgettable moments on the pitch.