Jittery France Go Through
Patrick Vieira and Thierry Henry secured France’s place in the knockout stages of the World Cup in with a goal each inside a six minute spell just after half-time.
France needed victory to ensure their progress to the last 16, but were frustrated by a spirited Togo defence during a goalless first half.
The win seemed comfortable in the end, but it was anything but for much of the opening hour as France looked in real danger of making an early exit from the competition.
But Vieira, celebrating his 30th birthday, eased the nerves as he fired home from inside the box on 55 minutes.
And Henry turned before sending in a low shot six minutes later to set up a second round tie against Spain.
French coach Raymond Domenech admitted he felt the pressure as his side struggled to convert their numerous chances.
“It’s stressful when you don’t score, especially when we couldn’t afford to concede a goal,” Domenech said.
He added: “We’re happy to get out of this group. All the games were close. It was not easy and went to the end.”
Domenech hailed the performance of Juventus midfielder Patrick Vieira.
“I’ve been right for a long time about him, when others have not. He is exceptional.”
“He scored a goal and he created a goal.”
Victory secured second spot in Group G for France and set up a second-round tie against Group H winners Spain in Hanover on 27 June.
“Yes, it is a great match,” Domenech said.
“I expected to play them but not in the same scenario. I thought they would finish second and we would finish first. But, never mind, it is a great match anyway.”
Goalscorer Vieira said he expected better performances from France in the knockout stages after disappointing displays in the group stage.
France were held to draws by both Switzerland and South Korea.
“There’s a great potential in this team and I hope this qualification will help us play more freely because we aren’t bad at all,” said Vieira.
“It took time and it was difficult but in the end we proved competitive and reached our first goal which was to advance to the second round.”
