France’s Appeal Rejected as Olise Faces Suspension Risk in World Cup Quarterfinal Against Morocco

If Olise is cautioned again against Morocco, he will be suspended for a potential semifinal against Spain or Belgium.

Published On 8 Jul 20268 Jul 2026

France manager Didier Deschamps confirmed that FIFA has rejected their appeal against Michael Olise’s yellow card from the World Cup last-16 match against Paraguay.

Olise, a standout performer in the tournament, received a yellow card in the closing moments of the heated Philadelphia match after an incident with Matias Galarza. Replays indicated minimal contact, with Olise gesturing near his mouth before Galarza fell to the ground, claiming a facial blow.

The decision leaves Olise, along with teammates Bradley Barcola and Manu Kone, vulnerable to suspension if cautioned again in the quarterfinal against Morocco. Deschamps stated that midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni is recovering from a thigh injury that kept him out of the Paraguay game but noted uncertainty about his availability for training.

Argentine referee Facundo Tello will oversee the Morocco clash, adding a subplot given France’s 2022 World Cup final loss to Argentina. Deschamps dismissed concerns over the officiating appointment, saying, “I focus only on preparing the team. Morocco is our opponent, not the referee.”

Deschamps, who will conclude his 14-year tenure after the tournament, aims to secure France’s progression. The quarterfinal against Morocco, a rematch of the 2022 semifinal won by France, marks his final match should Les Bleus be eliminated.

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