PARIS, Sept 8 - France believe their 1-0 win in
Dublin marks a turning point that will help them qualify for the
World Cup after a lacklustre start to their campaign.
"Of course, our next match against Switzerland is now our
most important game but we are back on a winning path and our
fate is in our hands", coach Raymond Domenech told journalists
on Thursday.
"I have the feeling that the players became really aware of
the situation in the Lansdowne Road dressing room. I felt a lot
of desire, concentration and solidarity. I hope the match will
become a reference match on our road to Germany."
France's victory on Wednesday was the first in any game
between the main Group Four contenders. Les Bleus now share the
lead with Switzerland on 16 points from eight matches. Israel
are third on 15 with only one game left and Ireland are a
further two points adrift.
Switzerland and Israel both won on Wednesday, defeating
Cyprus 3-1 and Faroe Islands 2-0 respectively.
"We still have to go to Switzerland and win," Domenech said.
"Calculations are pointless. We know that if we make a mistake
next month we shall be in deep trouble."
France travel to Switzerland on October 8 and host Cyprus on
October 12. The Irish play Cyprus away and then host Switzerland
in their final game. Israel entertain Faroe Islands on October
8.
Arsenal striker Thierry Henry's curling shot in the 68th
minute earned France the win but Domenech singled out Chelsea
defensive midfielder Claude Makelele as his man of the match.
"He was the best player on the night. As always, he did
everything he had been asked to do perfectly well," he said.