France - Zidane: "We're also counting on the support of the 60,000 Marseille supporters"

11.06.98 16h24 CET

Statements made in MARSEILLE

Zinedine ZIDANE (10):

"My ankle injury is nothing but a memory. Today there's nothing left. After the match against Finland, I was angry with the referees for not having sanctioned a number of fouls, but I think the players will be better protected during the World Cup."

"The match against SOUTH AFRICA (Group C) will be one of the most important of my career. It will set the tone for the rest of the competition. Of course, everybody will play a part, but the role I'm in is the most important. Everyone expects more from the number ten. It's the first time I've been under so much pressure, but I'm prepared to meet the challenge. We all know what we have to do, and we're also counting on the support of the 60,000 MARSEILLE supporters."

 

Laurent BLANC (5):

"I can't wait to begin playing. We'll be heading into matches one after the other. The clash with SOUTH AFRICA (Group C) is very important, because at all costs we have to finish at the top of the group. If, tomorrow, we open the scoring, we won't take any risks. The key lies in the possession of the ball."

"We don't have the time to think too hard because of the pressure, but in terms of experience, we have nothing to envy of the other teams."

 

Didier DESCHAMPS, Captain (7):

"Against SOUTH AFRICA (Group C), we want above all to win. The "show" is secondary. Our tactics will be to attack, leaving very little space for the opposing team. The set pieces will be all important. I really can't wait for it to begin."