Euro 2012 Qualifying Match: Bosnia-Herzegovina vs. France - 1st Half Report
It was the most awaited kick-off of the night. The future of both nations would be decided in these 90 minutes. Both France and Bosnia are dominant forces in Group D. After the shock loss to Belarus, France would try to bounce back and remove the pains which the France National Football Team has been suffering ever since their dismal campaign in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. While on the other hand, Bosnia would want to continue its winning streak and will try to get into their first ever international competition.
There was no doubt in the starting line-up for Bosnia, as they were quite satisfied with their first game. So Coach Saffet Susic decided to play the same line-up which won the first match. Kenan Hasagic has the responsibilities of goalkeeping for Bosnia. Moreover, Bosnia have a strong defence line with the likes of Bosnian skipper Emir Spahic, Safet Nadarevic, Ognjen Vranjes and Mensur Mujdza. Playing in the midfield for Bosnia are Boris Pandza, Senijad Ibricic, Lulic and Miralem Pjanic. And the strikers for Bosnia are the most talented Edin Dzeko and with him in the striking role is Vedad Ibisevic.
Les Blues made some changes in the squad after their shock defeat. The captain’s arm band was taken from Florent Malouda of Chelsea and given to Alou Diarra. Their starting line-up includes Hugo Lloris wearing the gloves for the French national side; helping him in the defence are Gael Clichy, Adil Rami, Phillippe Mexes, Bakari Sagna. In the midfield, Abou Diaby, Alou Diarra, Yann M’villa and Matthieu Valbuina are playing. Florent Malouda is playing as left striker along with the new addition to the squad, Karim Benzema.
The first half didn’t produce much action as both teams were unable to find any goal. It is still 0-0 level at half-time. There is huge support for the Bosnia National team as their fans were applauding every single move of their football players. However, both Bosnia and France were not very impressive. Despite creating many opportunities, the French side failed to convert any single chance. The 11th minute shot of Benzema nearly took the breath of every Bosnian fan present in that stadium away. He managed to hit the woodwork but was unlucky as the ball went out for the goal kick. At times, France also counterattacked but they were lacking the finishing touch. Most notable was when they were two on two with Bosnian defenders. A nice pass given to Benzema, but he failed to finish. Moreover, the French side looked vulnerable to the counterattacks of the Bosnian team. In addition to that, the most crucial moment of the first-half came when Abou Diaby was one on one with the keeper and the keeper managed to save the ball from going in to the net. Overall, a good display from both sides, but not as impressive from the French, as one would have expected from them.
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