France defender Lucas Digne has spoken publicly about the “immense disappointment” following Les Bleus’ World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain. The experienced left-back was involved in the key moment of the match when his challenge on Lamine Yamal resulted in a penalty that allowed La Roja to take the lead.

A dream turns into heartbreak

Two days after the 2-0 loss, the 32-year-old took to Instagram to share his feelings about watching a lifelong dream slip away. Having fought his way back into Didier Deschamps’ starting line-up during the World Cup in North America, Digne featured in every match of France’s campaign except for the group-stage games against Senegal and Norway. This made the elimination even more painful for him, as he admitted struggling to find words to describe such deep disappointment.

“And so, a dream is over,” Digne wrote. “The dream of a little boy, and surely that of thousands of people behind us. We always imagine so many things, often the most beautiful ones. But the end of a dream can sometimes be difficult, and the awakening even more brutal. The hardest thing today is finding the words to express this immense disappointment.”

Digne accepts responsibility

Although the outgoing Aston Villa player—who is set to join Paris Saint-Germain after the tournament—did not mention Lamine Yamal directly, his message carried a clear sense of personal accountability. His left-footed attempt to clear the ball led to a foul on the young Spanish star, resulting in a first-half penalty that put Spain ahead.

Reflecting on his mistake, Digne said: “First of all, I am disappointed in myself. Also disappointed for this team, for all the efforts we put in, and for this group of incredible players. I am also thinking of everyone who made the trip, as well as those who supported us from France and all over the world. Your support carried us throughout this adventure.”

An emotional comeback to the grand stage

This World Cup was a major personal milestone for Digne, marking his second appearance in the tournament—12 years after his first. After missing out on the 2018 triumph in Russia and the 2022 edition in Qatar, the former Barcelona defender had worked his way back into France’s setup before the semi-final heartbreak.

Despite the disappointment, Digne expressed gratitude to the fans and pride in representing his nation. “Despite this immense disappointment, I remain proud to have represented our country, with all its richness, its diversity, and all the people who make it up,” he said. “Thank you for everything, for your support, and for all these emotions. You have been incredible throughout the competition.”

Focus shifts to the third-place play-off

The campaign is not quite over for Didier Deschamps’ squad, who will now face England in the third-place play-off. Although such fixtures can be difficult to approach with full motivation, Digne is determined to end his international summer on a positive note by securing a bronze medal.

He told his followers: “It’s not over, we have a podium to play for.” France will take on the Three Lions on Saturday, aiming to restore pride before the players part ways and Digne completes his move to Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain.