Didier Deschamps is aware that his team must improve on their performance against Ireland in order to win tonight at the Parc des Princes (kick-off is at 7.45pm).
In March, France defeated Ireland by a solitary goal, although it could have been different if Nathan Collins’ late header had beaten goalie Mike Maignan.
And, with qualifying almost assured for France, Deschamps is ‘pragmatic’ about his team’s condition.
“I’ve already experienced situations with almost, it’s not qualified,” he admitted. “I am pragmatic and factual, and the players are well aware of this.”
“If that’s enough, fine; but let’s take the points.”
“The game in Dublin was complicated because we had just played three days before against the Netherlands, and Ireland had just played a friendly, so they were fresh,” he explained.
“This Ireland team has a lot of talent.” It will necessitate greater presence, as well as the creation of more defensive issues for them.
“They have a grouped block, and it will be the same tomorrow.”
Paul Pogba was forced to withdraw from the camp due to injury, and Randal Kolo Muani is also expected to miss out.
After overcoming an injury scare, Ireland skipper John Egan is looking forward to his tough Paris test against France.
Egan was pulled off during Sheffield United’s 2-2 draw with Everton in the Premier League on Saturday.
But he recovered in time to command a backline that includes Nathan Collins and Dara O’Shea.
And, while Ireland has a daunting assignment, Egan is looking forward to it.
“We know they’re a top team, but we’ve got to embrace these games,” he remarked.
“I think we embraced it in Dublin; we put in a really good performance that we can be proud of.”
“I believe we deserved a draw that night, and if it hadn’t been for their keeper’s world-class save at the end, we might have gotten it.”
“As defenders, as players, as a squad, we have to embrace it because it is one of the most difficult games in professional football, against France.”
“We have to give our all to get a result, but we believe in ourselves as a team.”
“We are always brilliantly prepared for games; we just have to go out there and perform to the best of our ability.”
Evan Ferguson, Michael Obafemi, and Mikey Johnston all miss out due to injuries.
Caoimhin Kelleher did not train yesterday, and Andrew Omobamidele did not make the matchday squad.
PREDICTION
France 1-1 Ireland
France
Injured: Paul Pogba, Randal Kolo Muani.
Doubtful: None.
Suspended: None.
Ireland
Injured: Evan Ferguson, Mikey Johnston, Michael Obafemi.
Doubtful: Caoimhin Kelleher.
Unavailable: Andrew Omobamidele.
Suspended: Matt Doherty.
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