France lifted by late goals

Three late goals gave UEFA European Under-17 Championship hosts France a hard-earned victory against a gallant Northern Ireland side in Blois.

Determined display
Although they enjoyed the majority of possession in front of 4,280 spectators, it looked as if Philippe Bergeroo's side would have to settle for a single point with the match still goalless heading into the final ten minutes. Appearing in the finals for the first time, Northern Ireland had contested every ball and had successfully contained their Gallic opponents.

Benzema boost
But the introduction of Karim Benzema with nine minutes to go proved the catalyst for the French victory. The Olympique Lyonnais striker broke the deadlock two minutes later with his first touch, and then created the second four minutes from time.

Party atmosphere
The sizeable crowd, who had earlier witnessed the tournament's opening ceremony, featuring more than 1,000 local children, created a vibrant atmosphere at Stade Jean Leroi. The majority were eager to see a French victory.

Difficult conditions
However, the pouring rain made conditions difficult for both sides and scoring chances were at a premium for the first 80 minutes. France had the majority of possession in the first half, but were unable to break down a resolute Northern Irish defence.

Full commitment
The pattern of French dominance continued after the interval, with Northern Ireland battling hard, closing the ball down quickly and making life extremely uncomfortable for their opponents, who are genuine trophy contenders at this tournament.

Dramatic stop
Against the run of play, Kenny Shiels' side came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 69th minute, when midfield player Michael O'Connor intercepted a pass just outside the penalty area. The Crewe Alexandra FC player produced a clever lob, but France goalkeeper Benoît Costil just managed to touch the ball on to a post.

Instant impact
Fifteen minutes after Benzema was introduced, France took the lead. Thomas Mangani's cross picked out the substitute inside the penalty area and Benzema controlled the ball on his chest before volleying beyond goalkeeper Jonathan Tuffey.

Spectacular finish
The goal proved to be the breakthrough France had been waiting for and the hosts quickly added a second. Benzema was again an integral figure, collecting the ball on the right and outpacing his marker. The striker's pass picked out Hatem Ben Arfa on the right-hand side of penalty area, and the forward pivoted on his right foot before shooting with his left with an impressive finish to double France's lead.

Songo'o strikes
The win was completed a minute before the final whistle. FC Barcelona's Franck Songo'o picked up the ball on the right corner of the penalty area and sent in a low shot that bounced beyond Tuffey to give the scoreline a one-sided look.

Second games
France will therefore go into their second Group A game, against Spain - 1-0 winners against Turkey today - on Thursday, in good heart. Northern Ireland, meanwhile, must lift themselves for their test against Turkey in Romorantin.