FRANCE 98 – France – C. Karembeu: “I came here to win the title”

Comments from Saint-Jean-d’Ardières

Vincent CANDELA (2):

“I don’t know the official line-up of the team that will play on Wednesday 24 June, but I think I’ll be starting the match. It’s an important match which will decide who’s going to come out first in the group. Being first is essential if we want to avoid playing against NIGERIA (Group D) in the next round, and then BRAZIL (Group A).

This game against DENMARK (Group C) could be my first World Cup match. I don’t know if this match will be the most important, but I’ll do my best. The role of the wing players will depend on DENMARK’s tactics. As a draw would be enough to qualify them, I think they’re going to play defensively. We will have to be careful about counter-attacks, remain concentrated and avoid getting carried away.”

Franck LEBOEUF (18):

“Aimé JACQUET told me that I would play against DENMARK (Group C). Playing in a World Cup, it’s a childhood dream come true. I want to make the most of this extraordinary moment. I never said that the coach has no confidence in me, but I did say that he has confidence in the duo Marcel DESAILLY (8) – Laurent BLANC (5).

The Danish team has excellent physical qualities with an intelligent technical play. But we shouldn’t compare Wednesday’s match with our defeat in 1996. It was a different period, the match consisted of a mere kick and rush. I’m very happy to meet for the first time my new Chelsea team-mate, Brian LAUDRUP (11).”

Christian KAREMBEU (19):

“It’s very satisfying for me to start the World Cup on Wednesday against DENMARK (Group C). On the substitute bench, I was restless. It’s nerve-racking to watch your team-mates play, without knowing whether you’re going to come in or not.

I have to get used to my new role on the pitch. The coach knows what I can do, he knows I’m in shape. I’ve never had the feeling that I had my place taken by someone else. I came here to win the title. If we win the tournament, and even if I only play one match, I will consider myself a World champion. I will feel that I’ve been useful.