French hearts are broken but future looks bright

France will be heartbroken after losing the World Cup final in a penalty shootout but the genius of Kylian Mbappé and the depth of talent in the squad bode well for the future

NOT THIS TIME: France's Kylian Mbappe looks at the World Cup trophy following defeat against Argentina. Pic: Martin Rickett/PA Wire

France will be heartbroken after losing the World Cup final to Argentina in a penalty shootout but the genius of Kylian Mbappé and the depth of talent in the squad bode well for the future.

France began the World Cup without Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema, striker Christopher Nkunku, midfielders Ngolo Kante and Paul Pogba and lost left back Lucas Hernandez in the first game and yet still reached the final, where they lost 4-2 on penalties after a spectacular 3-3 draw.