No stroll

French media unimpressed by scrappy win

PARIS (AP) -- France's World Cup debacle had still not been forgotten or forgiven by the country's media Thursday following Les Bleus' cumbersome 1-0 Confederations Cup win over Colombia.

France crashed out of the 2002 World Cup in the opening round -- scoring no goals. Wednesday's Group A match was another chance to erase those memories -- but Thierry Henry's penalty was all the Stade Gerland crowd at Lyon had to cheer.

Le Parisien went with the headline "Laboring to Victory," saying that France "suffered right until the end under the Colombian menace."

Sports daily L'Equipe said Les Bleus had been "hot under the collar," and cast doubt on France's ability to win the competition.

"Those who thought the Confederations Cup would be a stroll for France were given a reality check. Colombia was often the better team and France was severely shaken," the report said.

At least Le Figaro had some kind words to say.

"Against an efficient Colombia side France suffered yet showed huge richness and strength in depth, especially with the faultless Philippe Mexes in defense," the newspaper said.

France next faces Japan in Saint-Etienne on Friday -- with another chance for coach Jacques Santini to silence the critics.

 

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