Girard on a high with France

France coach René Girard has hailed the exceptional spirit of his young team after seeing them cruise through the group stage at the UEFA European Under-21 Championship, but he warns that Thursday's semi-final against the Netherlands will be a tougher challenge altogether.

Sparkling form
Les Espoirs have been in sparkling form in Portugal, winning their three Group A matches against the hosts, Germany and Serbia and Montenegro without conceding a goal. Perhaps the most impressive feature of their campaign has been the way they have maintained an excellent standard despite lining up with several changes in each game.

Team play
Indeed, the reserve goalkeepers are the sole squad members not to have seen action, and Girard is keen to highlight his side's collective achievement. "Before we arrived we had the chance to alter the team regularly and give some players who had proved themselves all season a rest," explained the 52-year-old.

'Good spirit'
"That has allowed us to keep a good spirit. Plus we have never lost sight of the fact it is our spirit and our focus that have guided us through the tournament. The boys who come on to replace other players are not regarded merely as cover. We've come here to try and get a result and we don't have a squad of eleven first-teamers and eleven reserves."

Ideal base
France have also been able to prepare for matches in ideal conditions. They are based in Santo Tirso, near Porto, at the same camp France's seniors used during UEFA EURO 2004™. Les Bleus made a disappointing quarter-final exit two years ago, yet Girard did not hesitate in choosing Santo Tirso as base. "The first thing a coach looks into after the draw is arranging the logistical matters," he said.

'Best conditions'
"We are incredibly lucky. We didn't want to worry about superstition and the fact Les Bleus were here during EURO 2004. The facilities are ideal and the people have been lovely, so I'm delighted. They have looked after our every need but most importantly the place is simple and calm. We have been put in the best conditions possible."

Respect required
Girard is understandably confident about the remainder of the tournament, but knows his players will have to be at their best against the Dutch. "Ensuring the boys have fully recovered remains one of my biggest concerns. We're looking further ahead and we want to keep our momentum going. I always say it's important to act, rather than react. We need to show what we are capable of from the start but also respect our opponents."

Favourites' tag
With holders Italy surprisingly exiting the finals on Monday, France have been installed as many people's favourites. "We've had a good run but I wouldn't say we are favourites," Girard continued. "The only advantage we have is that we finished top of our group so we play the second team from Group B. But there's still plenty to do. A new competition is beginning with big matches to take care of. We've worked hard, we've tried to get the team to gel as well as possible. It's worked so far but I think the semi-finals will be a different proposition entirely."