Hugo Lloris says he texted his Tottenham team-mate Harry Kane after the England skipper missed a crucial penalty when facing the France keeper in the World Cup 2022 quarter-finals.
Kane scored his first spot kick against Les Bleus captain Lloris in the first half to equalise after Aurelien Tchouameni struck an early opener.
But Olivier Giroud restored France’s lead in the second half, and Kane blazed over from 12 yards when he had a chance to level the game and potentially send it to extra time with six minutes remaining.
Lloris, a 2018 World Cup winner with France, will lead his country against Morocco in Wednesday’s semi-final, but he found time to reach out to his club-mate.
"It's a difficult time for the England national team and Harry," said Lloris.
"We had a text after the game. It was not easy to find the words. He needed some time to rest.
"I think he can be proud of what he has done for the national team.
"In football history, many top players have missed penalties in their career - Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo - but I have no doubt Harry will keep his chin up and help Tottenham and the national team to shine."
France are aiming to defend the crown they won in Russia four years ago and by doing so, become the first successful defending champions since Brazil in 1962.
But they face a tough task against the sensations of the tournament in Morocco, who have had a vociferous backing at their games thus far in Qatar.
"It will be a hostile atmosphere inside the stadium, but we are ready for anything," said Lloris.
"Obviously, it is already a success for Morocco - but, believe me, they won't want to stop here.
"They want to become even more of a hero for their country. We prepare to respond to the demands of a semi-final of a World Cup - it doesn't matter the opponent."
