Giroud rocket means he’s now scored more goals for France than Zidane!

TEAM-MATES of Olivier Giroud say he brings far more to the party than critics realise. He certainly did last night, taking centre stage in Paris. Giroud’s stunning volley saw him edge one goal ahead of the talismanic Zinedine Zidane’s 31 for France and underline his importance to the world champions. The winner against Holland, scored 16 minutes from time, was truly sublime. Giroud bought space in front of Virgil van Dijk to meet Benjamin Mendy’s wicked delivery, which he exquisitely angled past Jasper Cillessen. It was a fitting way to pass Zidane’s haul. The Chelsea striker is often derided — but not by those who know him best. His presence in Didier Deschamps’ team means they can go short via the irresistible pairing of Antoine Griezmann and Kylian Mbappe or go direct. Deschamps needed Giroud’s intervention in the Nations League last night. Mbappe had tapped in Blaise Matuidi’s cross on 14 minutes but Holland struck back through Ryan Babel midway through the second half. So Giroud’s finish, twisting his hips to convert the cross, meant the homecoming ended happily. France’s first game back was a celebration — from the two golden stars fashioned in the Stade de France stands to symbolise two World Cup wins, to the parade of the trophy.