Northern Ireland manager O'Neill praised outgoing France boss Didier Deschamps' achievements after a 3-1 loss to Les Bleus in Lille.
Northern Ireland head coach Michael O'Neill lavished praise on departing France manager Didier Deschamps, calling him a 'fantastic national team manager'. The two coaches share a long history, as O'Neill took charge of Northern Ireland just months before Deschamps was appointed in France back in 2012.
O'Neill reflected on Deschamps' remarkable run in charge of a powerhouse team, highlighting his ability to manage a roster packed with world-class talent. 'Didier was appointed just after I was in my first spell, he's been a fantastic national team manager,' O'Neill remarked.
Deschamps' success as both a player and manager was a recurring theme in O'Neill's comments, who noted the Frenchman's transition from captaincy to leadership in the dugout.
O'Neill emphasized the unique challenges of managing a squad filled with superstars, suggesting only someone with Deschamps' qualities could thrive in such an environment. 'He was a magnificent player and leader as a player and he's brought that into his management career,' O'Neill added.
The Northern Irish boss also praised Deschamps' humility, pointing out how the outgoing manager always made time for others despite his high-profile role.
A thrilling hat-trick from Michael Olise, including a breathtaking third goal, secured a 3-1 victory for France against Northern Ireland at Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille.
The match marked Deschamps' final home game in charge of Les Bleus before his planned exit following the World Cup in North America.
Northern Ireland's Patrick Kelly scored his first international goal, lacing onto a cross from Shea Charles, though the visitors were unable to overturn the result.
O'Neill admitted his side faced a daunting task against the world's deepest squad but took pride in their performance.
Despite the loss, O'Neill expressed satisfaction with his team's display, particularly given the circumstances. He highlighted their discipline and composure, noting they limited France's scoring chances while creating opportunities of their own.
'It was a huge test for us coming here against the best international squad in the world in terms of the depth and options they have, but I thought we gave a really good account of ourselves,' O'Neill said.
The first goal left the Northern Ireland camp frustrated, with O'Neill insisting it was incorrectly awarded after a VAR review, though he acknowledged the impact of the setback.
Patrick Kelly's early goal provided a rare highlight for Northern Ireland, with the Barnsley forward racing to meet Charles' cross.
O'Neill singled out Kelly for particular praise, pointing to his development over the past year since leaving West Ham for League One.
'He's had a brilliant year, stepping away from West Ham as a young player, playing at Barnsley in League One, he has had a good season there and he's shown he's ready for the next step in his career,' O'Neill explained.
The manager also noted Kelly's physical growth, stressing his readiness to compete at a higher level despite his young age.
Michael Olise's stellar performance overshadowed Northern Ireland's efforts, with the France winger claiming a perfect hat-trick in Deschamps' swansong on home soil.
O'Neill acknowledged the quality of the French attacker's goals, especially the third, which he described as a moment of brilliance from one of the world's premier talents.
'The third goal was a piece of brilliance by one of the best players in the world at this moment in time,' O'Neill commented.
The result ensured Deschamps ended his tenure on a high note, with Olise's contribution capping a memorable occasion.