Lucas Digne has admitted he is deeply disappointed with himself after France’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup final were ended by Spain.

The 32-year-old endured a difficult evening as Didier Deschamps’ side suffered a 2-0 defeat in Tuesday’s semi-final in Arlington, Texas. Two days later, Digne addressed the setback in an emotional Instagram post.

“I am disappointed in myself first and foremost,” he wrote.

Digne’s mistake hands Spain the lead

The decisive error came during the first half when Digne failed to control a cross and caught Lamine Yamal while attempting to clear the ball inside the French penalty area.

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Referee Iván Barton immediately awarded a penalty, which Mikel Oyarzabal converted in the 22nd minute. Pedro Porro added Spain’s second goal after the break to secure a place in the final, as reported by ESPN.

Digne never fully recovered from his early mistake. After losing possession several times at the beginning of the second half, he was replaced by Théo Hernandez in the 72nd minute.

The left-back was not solely responsible for France’s elimination, but he failed more than most on a difficult night, according to L’Équipe’s assessment of his performance.

‘An immense disappointment’

Digne, who has won 63 caps for France, started every one of the team’s knockout matches at the tournament. His mistake against Spain therefore provided a painful conclusion to what had otherwise been a prominent role in Deschamps’ side.

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“Also disappointed for this team, for all the efforts we made and for this incredible group of players,” Digne continued, quoted by L’Équipe.

“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 what it is.”

He also thanked the French supporters who travelled to North America and those who followed the team from home.

One final chance to respond

France’s hopes of a third World Cup title are over, but their tournament has not yet finished. Deschamps’ side will face England in Saturday’s third-place play-off.

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“It’s not over,” Digne added. “We have a place on the podium to fight for.”

The match could be Digne’s final appearance before returning to French club football. The Aston Villa defender has agreed a three-year contract with Paris Saint-Germain and is expected to complete the transfer after the World Cup, according to L’Équipe.

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