Didier Deschamps said he was not focusing on the Argentine officials assigned to France’s World Cup quarter‑final with Morocco. The French coach emphasized that the focus, not the referees, mattered after the 2022 final where Argentina beat France. Deschamps accepted Facundo Tello as the main referee, along with two Argentine assistants, a reserve assistant, and a fourth official, and expressed trust in their competence.

Backup goalkeeper Robin Risser echoed the sentiment, noting that bitterness between France and Argentina stems from the 2022 final but is part of the sport, and that the officials are competent for the competition. Mohamed Ouahbi also framed the match around the team’s goals, stating that “we only want to reach the semifinals” and dismissing any desire for revenge from the 2022 semifinal where France won 2‑0.

The appointment follows criticism of French referee Francois Letexier in the round‑of‑16 game against Argentina and Egypt. Both coaches believe experienced officials can help keep the focus on play. For France, a win would advance them to the last four and solidify their status as a title contender; for Morocco, the game is a chance to break the African record and extend their World Cup run.