Spain desperate for win after the 'unthinkable', says Deschamps

The 44-year-old says he would be happy with a point when the sides clash in Paris on Tuesday, and praised the solidarity within the squad following recent unrest from supporters

France coach Didier Deschamps has warned his side that Spain will be going all-out for victory in Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier.

Les Bleus currently sit two points clear at the top of Group I after their 3-1 win over Georgia and Spain’s shock 1-1 draw with Finland, but Deschamps has stressed that La Roja will be desperate to make up for their “unthinkable” result on Friday.

“A win or a draw against Spain? Both are fine,” he told Telefoot. “Obviously a win is better, it would give us five points on top of the group. But Spain will come here to win. Their draw against Finland was unthinkable.”

Deschamps was left frustrated at conceding a late goal during Friday’s victory over Georgia, and believes his side had allowed their concentration levels to slip ahead of the match in Paris.

“The goal we conceded against Georgia has upset me a little,” he continued.

“The score was already settled. We managed the game but we have to have a better control. But when you have another game that awaits you, consciously or unconsciously, you play with the handbrake on.”

Karim Benzema put in another below-par performance in the match, and although Deschamps admits the striker was affected by the crowd’s reaction to his display, the solidarity within the squad will help him put his international goal drought to an end.

“Benzema was reached by the whistles. Other players too,” he added. “The French public is demanding but you cannot be insensitive. They have the right to express themselves but we need support.

“Players supported Benzema, but not because he is Benzema. There is a spirit of solidarity on this group and I like that.”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *