World Cup: FIFA Rejects France’s Appeal Against Olise’s Yellow Card

FIFA has upheld Michael Olise’s yellow card against Paraguay, leaving the France winger one booking away from suspension ahead of Morocco clash.

France have suffered a setback ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter final against Morocco after FIFA rejected an appeal seeking to overturn Michael Olise’s yellow card from the Round of 16 victory over Paraguay.

France head coach Didier Deschamps confirmed the decision on Wednesday while addressing journalists before his side’s crucial encounter with Morocco at the Gillette Stadium.

According to the French manager, FIFA informed the team that the caution issued to the Bayern Munich winger would stand despite efforts to have it rescinded.

“The yellow card has not changed. We were notified by FIFA this morning. It has been maintained,” Deschamps said.

Olise was booked in the closing stages of France’s tense victory over Paraguay following an altercation with Paraguayan midfielder Matias Galarza.

Television replays appeared to show minimal contact between the players, with Olise placing a finger in front of his mouth before Galarza fell to the ground, alleging he had been struck in the face.

France believed the incident did not warrant a booking and subsequently appealed to FIFA, but the governing body decided to uphold the referee’s original decision.

The ruling means Olise will head into the quarter final against Morocco carrying a disciplinary risk. Should he receive another yellow card in the match, he would be suspended for a possible semi final against either Spain or Belgium if France progress.

Olise is not the only French player facing that possibility. Bradley Barcola and Manu Kone are also one caution away from suspension after both received yellow cards during the clash with Paraguay.

Meanwhile, Deschamps provided an encouraging update on midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, who missed the Round of 16 fixture because of a thigh injury.

The France coach said the midfielder was making steady progress and could return to training, although a final decision on his availability would depend on his condition before kickoff.

“Aurelien is doing better. I can’t say more than that. He will maybe take part in training today, but I will need to see. The others are all available,” Deschamps added.

France will face Morocco seeking a place in the World Cup semi finals, with disciplinary concerns now adding another challenge to their preparations.