FRANCE 98 – MatchQuotes

“I am satisfied with this result since it gave us the three points for the win. It was important that we score early, because the Americans gave us a lot of trouble. It was only in the second half, which I considered satisfying, that we found our rhythm and discipline. In fact, Jurgen KLINSMANN’s (18) goal eased the pressure a lot. As for our opponents, I was not surprised by the quality of their play. Since the start of the World Cup, we’ve in fact been noticing that there are no small teams. Many of the Americans play in Germany, so they are at an international level. With regard to ZIEGE (17), even though he’s not at the top of his form, I brought him in the second half to give him a chance to adapt to a highly competitive level of play.”

“I was disappointed with the result, but I’m satisfied with our play, especially in the second half. After the first goal by Andy MOLLER (7), we were too tentative. I was satisfied with how well we held up against the Germans, who are very complete players. But I was disappointed by our lack of accuracy in front of the goal. The three substitutions were intended to give us some offensive firepower. They weren’t put in to equalise, but to earn a draw or even a win. I brought in Frankie HEJDUK (2) because we weren’t penetrating on the right side. Roy WEGERLE (7) came in to give us more offence, especially with headers. The third substitute, Tab RAMOS (10) was brought in when the German defence tightened up. If we had held out 15 or 20 minutes before taking that first goal; we would have been more confident. I am very much encouraged by our play in the second half, and we feel optimistic for the upcoming match against IRAN.”