All posts tagged France

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has said that France can view the Euro 2012 as a success only if they win the tournament. France will be heading into the tournament not as one of the favourites to win the competition, but it is viewed that it is a tournament for redemption. The national team has not performed up to its standards in the last two major tournaments partly because of the tension within the squad. However, former Bordeaux manager Laurent Blanc has been able to unite the squad and the team come into the tournament having been undefeated in the last 21 matches.

The impressive form shown by France ahead of the Euro 2012 has been largely due to the form of Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema. The French striker was criticised a lot after initially not performing well for the Spanish club following his £ 35 million move from Lyon many seasons ago. However, the last two seasons has been a complete turnaround from the Frenchman after he has rediscovered his magic touch and hunger for the game. As a result, he has been able to keep out Argentine striker Gonzalo Higuain, who has been brilliant prior to the arrival of José Mourinho.

“To succeed at the Euros we must go to the final and win. But we must be at least pass the first round beginning by winning against England. I don’t know if I am the only world class player in the French team but we are a team. A good group. There is no particular pressure. Everyone waits for me, it’s like that [but] I will continue to be as I am. I don’t know if I am in the form of my life, I am 24 years old, but I feel superb,” Benzema told reporters.