France’s defence excels in 1-0 victory over Peru

YEKATERINBURG, RUSSIA — With all its attacking talent, France proved it also has class in defence.

Other coaches might envy Didier Deschamps, who has a forward line bursting with skill, speed and goals. But Peru coach Ricardo Gareca looked at the other end Thursday after his team lost 1-0.

“I think France did some outstanding work of defence,” said Gareca, whose team was eliminated while the French advanced to the knockout stage.

“Credit needs to be given to France, it’s not that Peru fell short,” Gareca said. “Unlike their other games, France had very strong tactical discipline to neutralize Peru. Something that wasn’t visible in their other matches.”

After Peru lost its opening game to Denmark 1-0, it needed a least a point against France to stay in contention following a 36-year absence from the tournament. With striker Paolo Guerrero back in the starting lineup, Peru’s players used any and every opportunity to put France under pressure.

It didn’t work.

Deschamps made two tactical changes for the game, using Olivier Giroud and Blaise Matuidi in the starting lineup. The result upfront was visible. France was more fluid than in the 2-1 victory over Australia and the co-operation between midfielders Paul Pogba and Ngolo Kante with the attackers resulted in a number of scoring opportunities.

In the second half, France kept Peru at a distance, allowing mostly long range attempts on goal.