Kylian Mbappe has acknowledged that he lost concentration before missing a penalty against Morocco, after a prolonged VAR review created uncertainty over whether the spot-kick would stand. The French captain also played down any worries about a minor ankle issue, assuring that he will be fit for the upcoming World Cup semi-final.

Mbappe reflects on VAR disruption

France secured their spot in the World Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 win over Morocco, but Mbappe’s missed penalty became one of the most discussed moments of the match. The forward explained that a VAR check lasting more than three minutes disrupted his rhythm. Initially informed that the penalty had been granted, Mbappe was later told that the decision was still under review, forcing him to reset his focus multiple times before finally taking the shot.

Mbappe describes the confusion

The Paris Saint-Germain star admitted that the unusual sequence affected his concentration, though he refrained from blaming the officials. Speaking after the game, Mbappe walked through the chaotic moments before his penalty attempt.

“I didn’t strike the ball well,” Mbappe admitted, as quoted by RMC Sport. “Then things got complicated because of some confusion. The referee told me there was a penalty, so I asked if the VAR check was over, and he said yes.

“After that, we transition to Ousmane (Dembele), who gives me the ball. Then the referee comes back to me, just when I’m preparing, to say there’s no penalty. So I’m left unsure — I pick up the ball, put it down again thinking it’s still a penalty, and he says, ‘No, wait, there’s another incident from two minutes earlier that needs to be checked.’”

Despite the interruptions, Mbappe took full responsibility for the miss. He added: “Well, that’s how it goes, I let myself get distracted. I’ve trained for many penalty situations, but I hadn’t faced this kind of scenario before. It’s something we’ll need to prepare for, because a referee might tell you there’s a penalty, then two minutes later say there isn’t. I don’t even know how long it all took. That’s part of modern football now — with VAR, you have to adapt.”

Captain downplays injury concerns

Mbappe also eased fears after being substituted in the 77th minute following treatment on the pitch. The French skipper later joined his teammates in celebration after the win, signalling that the knock was not serious.

“I’m fine. I took a hit on the ankle, but everything’s okay. JP [Mateta] was better suited to finish the last 15 minutes,” he explained, as quoted by ESPN.

France focus on the semi-finals

Next, France will turn their attention to the World Cup semi-final in Arlington, Texas, where they will face either Spain or Belgium. With Mbappe confirming that his ankle is in good shape, Les Bleus will be counting on their captain to lead the attack as they aim to move one step closer to another World Cup final appearance.