Champagne on ice for Didier

Moscow: Didier Deschamps is on the cusp of emulating Mario Zagallo and Franz Beckenbauer who have won the World Cup as a player as well as a manager with Brazil and West Germany respectively. Not bad for a midfielder who had been derided as a water carrier for his lack of skills. His calm presence on the touchline and his ever-ticking brain have put France a win away from their second World Cup.

If France are the most successful country in the World Cup since they won their maiden trophy in 1998 with three finals in 20 years, Deschamps is one of the most successful players of his generation. He won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 in addition to the Champions League with Marseille and Juventus. The amiable man also has a host of league titles from playing and managerial careers. Deschamps is a born leader.

It is difficult for neutrals to love Deschamps in Russia because he has not allowed his talent-rich team to express itself. He is like a conductor who wouldn’t allow his orchestra to play its most enchanting creation, though it has the best on every instrument. If France unleash their full repertoire, Croatia will have no place to hide.

Deschamps, who is more of an Italian than French after spending the best years of his playing career with Juventus, knows that his team can raise their game if the need arises.