France – R. Pirès: “It would be great to see President Chirac wear the France team strip”

Statements from the 6 July press call in Clairefontaine (south west of PARIS)

How do you feel about facing CROATIA?

“I’m very happy to face CROATIA in the semi-finals; I was expecting it a bit because the Germans are not as strong as they used to be. CROATIA is a new, fully developing team that has caught everyone’s eye. They love their role as a long-shot. On the pitch we’ll have to watch out for their offensive attack because they’re quick and they have a good build-up. They’re a bit like us in that respect. They’re a team that likes to play, and to beat them we’ll have to be patient and just play like we usually do.

How does not starting affect you?

Personally, I took the fact that I didn’t start against ITALY in my stride, even if I really wanted to be on the pitch after playing so well against PARAGUAY. But whatever happens, I’ll be ready to help the team. When I was younger I idolised PLATINI, Tigana and Giresse. I’m so happy to be able to play in this World Cup, but I won’t feel that I’ve joined their ranks until I’m a starter! I often think about Jean Tigana’s incredible burst of speed during the 1984 European championship semi-finals in MARSEILLE, which enabled FRANCE to qualify for the final… My dream is to do the same thing in the World Cup final. Do I have any “superstitions”? I always go on to the pitch left foot first, and I always stand up with my left foot first…even though I’m right-handed!

What do you think of the fan support in this World Cup?

The supporters have really impressed me during this World Cup, particularly those in the stadiums. More and more of them are wearing our team colours. Of course, you always see the “suits and ties” in the presidential box, but it would be great to see President Chirac wear the FRANCE team strip… Nelson Mandela did it for his team! I would really love him to do it. He could even wear…say, number 23! Either way, I’m not surprised by the public’s excitement, and making people so happy is awfully moving.”