France fans rally behind Spain

KUALA LUMPUR: France may have been beaten in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals, but their fans have switched sides by throwing their support behind Spain in the final.

Most of fans of “Les Bleus” have decided to root for Spain after being impressed by their skills and technical abilities.

France supporter Muhammad Firdaus Roslan, 31, said Spain were simply the better team on the night.

“Yamal was unbelievable. He’s only 19, but he played without fear and kept causing problems for France’s defence. Winning the penalty changed the game.

“We hoped Kylian Mbappe could produce another magical moment, but Spain controlled possession, defended well and took their chances. They deserved to win.

“The World Cup only comes once every four years. If France can’t lift the trophy, I hope Spain do. I’d rather lose to the eventual champions.

“I’ll stay up for one more match, and this time I’ll be cheering for Spain,” he said.

Another France supporter, M. Suresh, 27, admitted the final whistle marked the end of a month-long routine built around football.

“For the past few weeks, my alarm was set in the middle of the night just to watch France. It feels strange knowing there are no more France matches to look forward to.

“I’ll still wake up for the final because Spain have been the most consistent team in the tournament. Hopefully they’ll finish the job,” he said.

Spain supporter Mohd Hafiz Jamaluddin, 34, said the victory showed why La Roja are favourites to win the World Cup.

“France are one of the strongest teams in the world, but Spain stayed calm from start to finish. Even after taking the lead, they never lost control,” he said.

Fellow Spain fan Steven Chua, 29, said Spain’s blend of youth and experience had made them the tournament’s standout team.

“You can see the confidence in this team. They don’t panic, they trust each other and everyone knows their role.

“I’ve stayed up for every Spain match and I don’t mind doing it one last time.

“Hopefully they’ll finish the job,” he said. Spain will face either England or defending champions Argentina in the World Cup final next Monday.

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