The French team faced a setback in Kiev on Friday, losing 2-0 to Ukraine in the first leg of the 2014 World Cup playoffs. This defeat has significantly complicated their journey to secure a ticket to Brazil. Now, Didier Deschamps’ squad must accomplish a remarkable feat at the Stade de France on Tuesday to avoid major disappointment. The Tricolores struggled to influence the match, with only a 65th-minute attempt from Nasri posing a real threat, but the midfielder’s shot was straight at the Ukrainian goalkeeper Pyatov.
Deschamps expressed his frustration, stating, “It’s hard to take. On the appearance of the match, the 2-0 was not deserved.” Despite the challenges, he emphasized the upcoming return match, promising a more aggressive performance. Reflecting on missed opportunities, Deschamps highlighted the team’s unluckiness, with goalkeeper Hugo Lloris touching both goals. Nasri, disappointed by his duel with the Ukrainian goalkeeper, admitted, “I have regrets because I tell myself that I could have nicked it, hit it hard at the near post.”
Looking ahead to the return match at the Stade de France on Tuesday, Nasri is determined to move past this episode. He plans to replay the missed chance in his mind, hoping for another opportunity and a different outcome. “We will have to score very early,” Nasri emphasized, acknowledging the challenge ahead but expressing the team’s commitment to doing whatever is necessary.
