Perhaps one of the most controversial decisions in recent football history paved the way for France to reach the World Cup in South Africa this summer. French skipper Thierry Henry reignited the argument for goal line technology when he seemed to handle the ball deliberately, setting up the winning goal in the World Cup playoffs. This ensured qualification to the finals at the expense of the Republic of Ireland.

France made the playoffs after finishing second in qualifying Group 7 of the European zone, losing out on top spot to Serbia.

Joining Les Bleus in Group A of the greatest sporting event in the world are host nation South Africa, South American qualifiers Mexico and Diego Forlan’s Uruguay. France have appeared in 12 finals tournaments, winning on home soil in 1998, and over the last decade have developed into a team that starts every tournament with serious hopes of winning.


The Coach

Raymond Domenech (FRA)
58 years old

Before taking charge of the national team Domenech was coach of the French Under-21 side, having enjoyed spells with local sides Mulhouse and Lyon previously. The 58-year-old took over the reins of Les Bleus in 2004 from Jacques Santini. It was a surprise appointment and although Domenech is now the country’s longest serving coach he has failed to win over the majority of the passionate French fans. His management methods have raised eyebrows amongst players and supporters and his style seems to have cost him his job, as Bordeaux coach Laurent Blanc is set to take charge after the World Cup.

Players to Watch

Franck Ribery
27 years old
Winger
Bayern Munich (GER)

The mercurial winger has suffered a turbulent end to the season with off field problems not helping his preparations for the World Cup. Add to this the pain of missing out on the Champions League final due to suspension and Ribery will need no encouragement in South Africa. The Frenchman has also recently signed a new five-year contract with Bayern, and will be looking to this summer’s competition to showcase his talents. Ribery has the ability to be a match winner and if France are to do well they will be looking to him to produce the goods. Could be a star of the finals.


Hugo Lloris
23 years old
Goalkeeper
Lyon (FRA)

The reigning Ligue 1 Goalkeeper of the Year, Lloris is fast developing into one of the finest shot-stoppers in the world. The talented youngster has had another wonderful season with Lyon, leading to a whole host of European giants pondering a swoop for the French number 1. Lloris will be a key figure for the French.

 

 

Nicolas Anelka
31 years old
Striker
Chelsea (ENG)

The Chelsea frontman has been rejuvenated this season under new Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti on his way to a domestic double. The former Real Madrid striker has been in great goalscoring form, shrugging off his doubters. Anelka will be going into the tournament full of confidence, and with Ribery and club team-mate Florent Malouda supplying the ammunition for the French side it could well be a fruitful tournament for the forward.

Yoann Gourcuff
23 years old
Attacking Midfielder
Bordeaux (FRA)

Former AC Milan youngster Yoann Gourcuff made his international debut in August 2008 and scored his first goal just two games later against Romania. Labelled the new Zinedine Zidane, the Bordeaux playmaker has the skills to unlock the sternest defences. The 23-year-old Frenchman glides past opponents at will and with many top European clubs monitoring his progress with chequebooks open, he will be keen to impress.


The view from France

There is no shortage of talent within this French squad; however it seems to be a lack of teamwork that has made the team struggle in recent years, together with a series of baffling decisions from Domenech. The country craves the success earned in the late 90s and early 2000s, and with a renewed sprit amongst the ranks it could be a successful tournament for Les Blues. Full back Patrice Evra said: “We have to help each other out. We’re all rowing in the same boat and our boat is set to win the World Cup. I have told you – I say this looking in your eyes that I’m going to South Africa to win this World Cup”


Prediciton

On paper France should not have too many problems making it past the group stage, and if the team play to their potential they have to be strong contenders to reach the final. With numerous players within the squad having had successful seasons with their respective clubs they will be coming into the tournament on a high. A strong defence in front of the talented goalkeeper suggests they will be hard to break down and with plenty of flair in attacking positions France should be exciting to watch in their quest for the trophy.

Did you know?

Paris born forward Lucien Laurent became the first player to score a goal in World Cup history. In the first ever World Cup match France defeated Mexico 4-1 at the Estadio Pocitos in Montevideo, Uruguay. Laurent scored with a volley in the 19th minute.

Group games

11/6/10: France  0 – 0  Uruguay    –   Cape Town
17/6/10: France  0 – 2  Mexico    –  Polokwane
22/6/10: France  1 – 2  South Africa    –  Bloemfontein