Maxence Lacroix became the first Crystal Palace player ever to feature in the semi-final of a World Cup after replacing William Saliba against Spain.
The France international was called upon by Didier Deschamps in just the 29th minute after Saliba was forced off through injury, and proceeded to deliver a calm, composed display in what was only his sixth appearance for Les Bleus.
Lacroix was, however, caught out as Pedro Porro put Spain 2-0 ahead. L’Equipe and other French news outlets have now shared their thoughts on how the Crystal Palace No.5 performed.
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Maxence Lacroix told he was “completely passive” as Spain went 2-0 up against France
There was a mixture of criticism and sympathy for the former VfL Wolfsburg defender amongst newspapers in France, after Spain progressed into the World Cup final.
L’Equipe gave Lacroix a rating of five out of ten and wrote: “Was involved but sometimes a little too far from his markers, then drawn into the centre for Porro’s second goal.”
Eurosport France were slightly more critical of the Crystal Palace star in their assessment, writing: “He had the unenviable task of replacing Saliba.
“A good performance in what were far from easy circumstances, but he was completely passive on the second goal when Pedro Porro got behind him (59th minute). A costly lapse in concentration that sealed the match. In short, Saliba’s injury was costly.”
They gave Lacroix – who Chelsea want – a rating of three out of ten.
Dicodusport were more sympathetic towards Lacroix, acknowledging the fact he was thrown into the game after Saliba went down.
They gave a rating of four out of ten and wrote: “Wasn’t entirely blameless on Spain’s second goal and struggled against La Roja’s attacks, which were often directed down his side. However, it’s difficult to blame him completely. Coming on so early in a semi-final is never easy.”
Even though the semi-final did not pan out as Lacroix would have hoped, the experience of playing such a significant match will only benefit the 26-year-old in his career.
How much is Maxence Lacroix worth? 🤔
The Frenchman still has three years left on his contract 📝
Hopefully, Crystal Palace are the ones to reap the rewards of his development, with Chelsea still hoping to sign the UEFA Conference League winner this summer.
