Hugo Lloris admitted he had mixed emotions after France reached the World Cup semi final.
France keeper Lloris said he “shares this moment of pain” with Tottenham teammate Harry Kane after his penalty miss in the quarter final. Lloris is on course to become the first captain to win back-to-back World Cups but said he still feels sympathy for Kane and offered his support.
Tottenham keeper Lloris said: “Of course we’re happy because it’s a key moment. But the man that I am is saddened because he is a teammate that I have known for a long time, a man that I respect enormously and someone who took responsibility at an important time.
“Unfortunately for him and the England national team, he put it over and fortunately for the France team, because it was a turning point.
“I know he is strong and that he will overcome, but I can only share this moment of pain with him. The English team put in a big performance and the French players deserve credit.”
Lloris seemed annoyed by some of the criticism and tough questions aimed in his direction during the tournament as he walked through the mixed zone interview area complaining: “Now you want words.”
But he remains one of the best keepers in the world and could be the most decorated captain in France’s history. Lloris added: “We have to savour this moment in the dressing room. It’s a big moment. It’s England. We did a very good job. The French players deserve the credit. We have to prepare for the next battle.”
Midfielder Adrien Rabiot wasn't quite as charitable. Rabiot claimed that "justice" was done by Harry Kane missing his late penalty for England. "First of all, I'm not sure that it's really a foul. We've seen hundreds of actions like that that aren't given," said Rabiot.
"I thought the refereeing was a bit borderline at times tonight, but we won't linger on that. Of course, when he missed, we were happy, it was justice because there was no penalty.
"But sometimes you also need that bit of luck, of success. We had it tonight, everything came together. We are really proud to reach the semi-final in this way."
