France returns to Boston base camp for rest day after World Cup quarterfinal win

Following France's 2-0 quarterfinal win against Morocco, Didier Deschamps provided an update on his team's condition and the schedule leading up to Tuesday's semifinal against Spain or Belgium in Dallas.

"They also need phases of oxygenation, but they know very well that this is a step," Deschamps said.

Day Off Granted

Immediately after the match, the coach granted the players a day off this Friday. The squad will be able to spend time with their families and loved ones, many of whom are in Boston for the match.

Festive Return to Base Camp

Leaving the stadium, the return to the Four Seasons in Boston promised to be celebratory. Deschamps praised the choice of the team's base camp:

"Some members of my staff did a reconnaissance, and it's a very good choice. Because of the quality of the facilities, because of the people around us. There are more and more people in front of the hotel, in cars, along the roads. I thank them. There is a human warmth here. All the Four Seasons employees are lovely. They do everything possible to ensure the French team is in the best conditions. Tonight, they will be waiting for us with nice music and flags."

First Place Proved Crucial

The coach emphasized the importance of finishing first in the group stage, which allowed Les Bleus additional recovery time:

• "Some teams had longer travels. Others had the fortune of playing under covered stadiums."
• "In the last match, under 40 degrees, the bodies were stressed. Freshness is a key point in a competition."
• "At the start, we only had four days, now we have five days between matches, an extra day, which is good."
• "We are optimizing with the medical staff. The players are fine, that's good, we'll need that."

Upcoming Schedule

Les Bleus are expected to return to Boston on Sunday evening, two days before the match in Dallas. They will learn their semifinal opponent this Friday evening (kickoff at 9 PM).