adminLYON. — Didier Deschamps says “crazy” France must strike a balance for the Euro 2016 soccer quarter-finals after a half-time bust up inspired their 2-1 comeback win over Ireland on Sunday.
There were heated words in the French dressing-room in Lyon at half-time after an early Robbie Brady penalty put the Irish 1-0 up at the break. With the hosts starring down the barrel of an early exit, Deschamps read his side the riot act, while senior players demanded more from Les Bleus.
“We had a bad first half, but a few things were said at half-time,” said Antoine Griezmann, the man-of-the-match, who scored both their goals.
“It was stormy.”
Deschamps admitted he raised his voice at half-time to demand his side raise the tempo as flared tempers translated into a swift fight-back. The call-to-arms was answered in emphatic style as Deschamps deployed Kingsley Coman on the right wing and moved Griezmann closer to striker Olivier Giroud. The tactical switch worked a treat as Atletico Madrid’s Griezmann powered his header home on 68 minutes.
Ireland struggled to contain France’s new-found energy. Giroud headed down into Griezmann’s path, who slammed home the winning goal four minutes later.
The Irish were reduced to 10 men after Shane Duffy’s red card for a foul with Griezmann through on goal.
France could, and should, have scored a third, but only their finishing let them down, which is a concern for the quarters. — AFP.
Online Reporter
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