France – D. Deschamps: “We were able to make all we've been working on for quite some time become a reality”

France – D. Deschamps: “We were able to make all we’ve been working on for quite some time become a reality”

15.06.98 12h05 CET

Comments from Clairefontaine early afternoon on Sunday 14 June 1998 when the FRANCE team (Group C) returned from MARSEILLE after their match against SOUTH AFRICA

Didier DESCHAMPS -(7), Midfielder

“This match has revealed some certainties: we were able to make all we’ve been working on for quite some time become a reality. Before the start of the World Cup, most of the other teams felt that FRANCE were a very strong, captivating team. With the defencive system put in place by Aimé JACQUET, with four central defenders, we can play at full potential and we have an extra midfielder. We already knew that we were quite strong in defence, whereas going forward we lacked spontaneity and teamwork. There is no perfect system, but we are trying to use our assets intelligently as well as each player’s strengths.”

Alain BOGHOSSIAN -(14), Midfielder

“Before the start of the World Cup, Aimé JACQUET’s plan was to take us out of the spotlight for us to be forgotten, then to put us back in the public eye. To see a team like FRANCE supported like we were in MARSEILLE, is a great feeling for us. We pulled together to push forward, to make our goals and to play attractive football. SOUTH AFRICA tried to break down our game and get the crowd to rally around them and against FRANCE. But, the spectators at the Stade Vélodrome could not be tricked. The French must continue to back their team.”

Christian KAREMBEU -(19), Midfielder

“I am thrilled that the team has found a strategy that worked and stuck with it. The most important thing is that the match ended in a victory for FRANCE. To win by three goals is incredibly exciting, but I’m afraid that our fans will be let down if we win our next match 1-0. Sitting on the bench, I learned how to watch a match. I tried not to yell, but it wasn’t always easy. It’s important to remember that there are fantastic moments in every game, even on the bench.”

Patrick VIEIRA -(4), Midfielder

“We have always known we’re a good team. Each one of us already had a way to deal with the pressure from the media, but our opening game performance against SOUTH AFRICA will now make people look at them differently.”