Marseille (AFP) – France coach Didier Deschamps said the Euro 2016 hosts had beaten world champions Germany to reach the final by never giving up despite suffering relentless pressure.

“We found it tough but we didn’t give up,” Deschamps said as he celebrated the 2-0 win in Marseille.

Deschamps hailed Germany as “a great team.” The World Cup holders easily dominated possession in the match. 

“There is quality in this German team. And when they don’t have the ball it gets even more complicated. We had the best team in the world opposite us.”

Deschamps said he felt “so much joy, and happiness for the players because they deserved” the win and the players had felt the support of the French nation.

“Before we came to the stadium we saw people going crazy — they are going to be even crazier on Sunday.

“I’ve always believed in my players. The ones I chose to form this group have repaid me handsomely, this is their story, their victory.”