The French will be starting off their World Cup campaign tomorrow when they go one on one with the pioneers of the tournament, Uruguay. Runners Up last year and winners in ’98, the French go into the tournament with not a lot to boast about. To be labeled as the most high profile underdogs in a group which is mediocre to say the least, speaks volumes about the turmoil that the French National Team is going through. When you warm up with a 1-0 defeat to China, and a 1-1 draw to Tunisia you are bound to be a little skeptical about your chances. And if this isn’t enough to bring down your spirits, then the memories of Euro 2008 might just do the trick.
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Doom-n-itch!
The structure and form of the squad is far from being reassuring. Theiry Henry, their top scorer in the finals(with 51 goals) and the sole survivor of the 1998 world cup winning squad is going through a lean patch form-wise and might be left warming the bench for most of the tournament. The absence of seasoned veterans like Zidane, Thuram, Trezeguet, Viera and Makelele will only add to their woes. Things don’t look that great on the defensive front either. William Gallas is being kept busy by his sustaining Calf Injury and his bitter rivalry with Patrice Evra, who has been named Captain for the tournament.
The French management is also doing its bit to ensure a first round exit by announcing Laurent Blanc as Domenech’s successor just days before the Cup. Nothing can boost the morale of a manager prior to a tournament more than when he is told that irrespective of the result, he will be sacked.
The last light!
However, if they somehow do manage to sort these internal issues out, they will be up against an even greater challenge. They are to face a team which they have never beaten in the finals, and which is hell- bent to prove its worth. With the 4th place finish in the 1970 Cup being their best result in the past 60 years, Uruguay would definitely want to kick-off on the right foot.
Although far and few, there are certain positives too. Eric Abidal, Franck Ribery and Florent Malouda have been performing well for their respective clubs. The presence of some very promising youngsters and the return to form of Nicolas Anelka might also swing things in their favor.
Another one of those trademark turnarounds by the French or Euro2008 all over again…..only time will tell. Personally, I hope Raymond Domenech ends his 6 year reign on a high note.
P.S. – The author firmly believes that there is an Irish “HAND” behind France’s never ending woes.
