France - Y. Djorkaeff: "Croatia is an impressive team"

06.07.98 20h02 CET

Comments gathered at Clairefontaine (Southeast of Paris), Monday 6 July in the middle of the day :

Concerning the quarter final...

"I tried to provide a good supply to my team-mates because they seemed well placed. So I tried to hold the ball up for those players who were coming through midfield. In front of us, we had Italy, the world champions of defence. Before, we had no scoring chances against them, but we ended up creating more opportunities than they did. We should be proud."

Concerning the team from FRANCE

"I am impressed by our performance. It's extraordinary. We used to have a hard time starting a game. Today, we always start well and finish well. The team from FRANCE is very much in sync with the World Cup and I am very happy to be a part of this adventure because it can lead to something no one has achieved before. As for becoming part of the legend, we'll see. Today, we're concentrating on the semi-final."

Concerning the semi-final

"CROATIA is an impressive team: the players are very skilled, their defence is very quick, and their organisation is perfect. Their game against the Germans proves they are a great nation, worthy of being one of the final four. In order to prepare the next match, (FRANCE-CROATIA, Wednesday 8 July at 21h00 at the Stade de France in SAINT-DENIS), we need to study their strengths and weaknesses in order to beat them and go on to the final in one piece. As for me, I know I will score a goal. This time it will go in, for sure!"

Concerning the final

"The NETHERLANDS could make it to the final. This team plays a very energetic game which is a pleasure to watch."