France continued its impressive run in the European Championship qualifying campaign with a 2-0 victory over Ireland, maintaining a flawless record in the competition. With this win, France's participation in the continental tournament in Germany next summer appears almost certain, further solidifying its status as a two-time champion.
Didier Deschamps' team has been exceptional throughout the qualification campaign, not conceding a single goal in five matches. France currently leads Group B with 15 points, boasting a comfortable nine-point advantage over the Netherlands and Greece, who have yet to catch up. The Dutch, who defeated Greece 3-0, have two games in hand.
Aurelien Tchouameni and Marcus Thuram were the goal-scorers for France at the Parc des Princes. The match was relocated to Paris Saint-Germain's stadium due to the Rugby World Cup's opening game scheduled at the Stade de France.
Deschamps made four changes to the team compared to their previous 1-0 victory against Greece. Olivier Giroud started as the striker, but his 125th appearance for France was cut short after just 25 minutes due to an ankle injury sustained in a collision with an Irish player. Marcus Thuram replaced him.
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Paris Saint-Germain's Kylian Mbappe played a pivotal role, providing the assist for Tchouameni's opening goal. Another PSG player, Ousmane Dembele, posed a constant threat from the right flank.
The pace of Irish forward Chiedozie Ogbene down the right wing gradually waned, allowing France to assert control after Tchouameni broke the deadlock in the 19th minute. Prior to that, a direct free kick from Antoine Griezmann had nearly caught Ireland's goalkeeper, Gavin Bazunu, off guard, but he managed to clear the ball with his chest.
Tchouameni's spectacular 25-meter shot, following Mbappe's pass just outside the box, left Bazunu with no chance and gave France the lead.
Mbappe appeared to have doubled France's advantage before halftime after a quick combination with Thuram, but a VAR check confirmed that his teammate was offside in the build-up.
In the 48th minute, Thuram extended France's lead to 2-0, capitalizing on the rebound from Mbappe's shot inside the box, which was initially blocked.
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France's goalkeeper, Mike Maignan, preserved yet another clean sheet with a reflex save to deny Ogbene's header.
France's impeccable performance in the European Championship qualifying campaign, coupled with the latest victory over Ireland, has virtually guaranteed their spot in the Euro 2024 tournament. With a commanding lead in their group and an unwavering defense, France is poised to make a strong statement in Germany next summer, further solidifying its reputation as a football powerhouse.
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