Tuesday 10 June 2008

Romania 0-0 France


France coach Raymond Domenech says his side must now beat both Italy and the Netherlands to qualify from group C after their 0-0 draw against Romania.

"Every match is now effectively a knockout match," he said. "I am neither pessimistic or optimistic."

Romania stifled a France attack including Lyon star Karim Benzema and Domenech critised their approach.

"We were playing against a team that didn't want to play, just wanted a draw."

Domenech said before the match in Zurich that the eastern Europeans - who finished ahead of the Netherlands in their qualifying group - would prove tough opponents but, despite their discipline, France failed to ask questions with any attacking creativity.

"We controlled the match without making many chances," said Domenech, who led France to the 2006 World Cup final.

"Now it leaves us to take six points from the remaining two matches."
With influential captain Patrick Vieira and main striker Thierry Henry absent through injury, Lyon's Jeremy Toulalan was ineffective in midfield and Nicholas Anelka woeful in attack.

"We were missing something today (Wednesday)," added Domenech.

Sciatic nerve victim Henry was on the bench for France's first game in the so-called 'Group of Death' though he could return to face the Netherlands on 13 June.

Vieira has stayed with the squad and is recovering from a thigh strain but it is highly doubtful whether he will return in time to play against Italy on 17 June.

From: bbc

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