Valencian Ricardo Íñiguez, the coach of Libya, posted a controversial remark before France’s quarterfinal victory over Paraguay (2-1), saying, “It would be funny if the cheaters won the World Cup.” While the French media has seemingly moved on from the scandal in their final group stage match against Iran. The petty futsal world still remembers it as one of the sport’s darkest moments. France’s loss to Iran led to such an outcry that FIFA opened an investigation. This didn’t stop Raphael Reynaud’s squad from making history by reaching the semifinals in their debut World Cup appearance.
Despite the French team’s achievement, their path to success is clouded by the questionable circumstances that allowed them to face Thailand in the round of 16 and Paraguay in the quarterfinals. Avoiding tougher opponents like Morocco and Brazil. Their plan worked out perfectly, as these were the easiest opponents. The last European team to debut and reach the semifinals was Portugal in 2000, and globally, it was Colombia in 2012. Now, France is set to face Argentina in the semifinals after the Albiceleste defeated Kazakhstan 6-1 in their quarterfinal.
In terms of performance, France’s strength has been undeniable. The team is physically dominant, technically skilled, and well-coached by Raphael Reynaud, with Kevin Ramírez leading on the court. Goalkeeper Francis Lokoka continued to perform at an extraordinary level, and Abdessamad Mohammed, one of their key players, assisted the first goal and scored the second, bringing his goal tally for Les Bleus to 83.
argentina clash
France will meet Argentina at the Humo Arena in Tashkent on Thursday. The Albiceleste, undefeated in their five games, are looking strong and are one win away from reaching their third consecutive World Cup final. Argentina, champions in 2016 and runners-up in 2021, dominated Kazakhstan in the quarterfinals. Mati Rosa opened the scoring with a deflected shot, followed by Ángel Claudino, Kevin Arrieta, who converted two penalties, and Sebastián Corso and Lucas Bolo sealing the win. Coach Matías Lucuix, emotional in the final moments, praised his team’s determination, saying, “I’m proud of them. They have the hunger to win and the humility to play.”
