DARK SECRETS: 32 - The Real Truth

Olivier Giroud answers France call as dazzling deputies display Didier Deschamps depth in World Cup opener

Four years ago in Russia, Olivier Giroud was an integral part of France’s World Cup success, despite being a centre-forward who did not score.

Evening Standard · Nov 22, 2022

FIFA World Cup: France start title defence with 4-1 win over Australia

NEW DELHI: Record-setter Olivier Giroud scored twice to help defending champions France start their title defence with a comprehensive 4-1 win over Australia at Al Janoub Stadium on Wednesday. At 36 years and 53 days, first Giroud became the oldest French player to play in the FIFA World Cup and…

The Times of India · Nov 22, 2022

Olivier Giroud: The amiable everyman of French football makes history at Qatar World Cup

Olivier Giroud’s double in the 4-1 win over Australia cemented his France legacy, one guided by the faith and nous of manager Didier Deschamps

The Independent UK · Nov 22, 2022

France survive scare as Olivier Giroud equals Thierry Henry record - 5 talking points

FRANCE 4-1 AUSTRALIA: Reigning World Cup champions France went behind to Craig Goodwin's early strike but claimed all three points thanks to goals from Adrien Rabiot, Olivier Giroud and Kylian Mbappe

Daily Mirror · Nov 22, 2022

France firm favourites to start off with win against Australia, despite injuries

France are overwhelming favourites in their opening clash against relative minnows Australia, especially given the presence of the mighty Kylian Mbappé. But Les Bleus fans can be forgiven a few jitters – as a range of injuries afflicts the squad and the curse of World Cup title-holders looms large.

France 24 · Nov 22, 2022

Why Karim Benzema’s absence could improve France’s World Cup chances

Neither of Les Bleus’ two World Cup triumphs contained a goal from their main striker at the time

The Independent UK · Nov 22, 2022

France put faith in Mbappé as injury-hit holders begin their defence

Les Bleus’ hopes of emulating Brazil may rest on their superstar forward avoiding a repeat of Pelé’s fate in 1962

The Guardian - UK · Nov 21, 2022

Jamie Carragher aims dig as Gary Neville begins contentious pundit gig with Richard Keys

Gary Neville is working for Qatari broadcaster beIN Sports during the much-debated World Cup, seeing him swap Jamie Carragher for Richard Keys as a studio companion

Daily Mirror · Nov 20, 2022

How Senegal’s ‘crazy bunch’ stunned France in World Cup upset for the ages

In an extract from a new book Philippe Auclair revisits the day Roger Lemerre’s all-conquering side fell to earth in 2002

The Guardian - UK · Nov 19, 2022

A history of World Cup flops: Past upsets haunt defending champions France

Defending champions France enter the World Cup in Qatar hoping to break the curse that has plagued recent title holders – a jinx the French inaugurated in 2002 when their formidable armada of strikers famously failed to score a single goal.

France 24 · Nov 18, 2022