Tchouaméni: Condolences to Deschamps and his family, we want to make him proud

Midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni stated that France is on a mission to make their absent coach, Didier Deschamps, proud by securing the top spot in World Cup Group I. The national team manager will miss Friday's clash against Norway in Foxborough after returning home following the death of his mother.

Les Bleus and Norway are level on six points, having already qualified for the knockout stage with two victories each over Senegal and Iraq.

“On behalf of the entire French team, the French family, we extend our condolences to the coach and his loved ones. This is a difficult time for everyone. We tried to normalize things, but we have a mission and we want to make him proud,” Real Madrid player Tchouaméni said at a press conference.

Deschamps received the news of his mother's passing on Tuesday morning, with the funeral scheduled for the same day as the match. Assistant coach Guy Stéphan will take charge of the team for the game at Gillette Stadium.

“When the coach left, he gave us a mission, both to the staff and the players,” Tchouaméni continued.

“Guy will adhere to what the coach asks us to do. We will continue to respect our playing principles. Guy is a very open person who loves the game. We are convinced that we will put in all the necessary ingredients to win,” the midfielder added.