Deschamps rues missed chances in Spain defeat

France manager Didier Deschamps revealed he regrets his team failed to convert the chances into goals in yesterday’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in World Cup qualifier at the Stade de France.

Matuidi, Varane, Ribery and Benzema failed to score, despite having decent opportunities. The Real Madrid forward has been singled out as particularly underperformed as he extended his goal drought to 12 games.

France’s lack of clinical finishing ability in front of goal meant Pedro’s only goal was just enough for Spain to secure the much-needed victory and leapfrog their rivals into the top spot. Deschamps said: Spain had more possession but that is not a surprise. What is the most annoying thing is that we had more opportunities than them and that’s where we were guilty although in the first half we defended well.

“But do not forget the team we faced. We battled well but the result is a disappointment. Even with 10 men, we managed to be dangerous but up against such an opponent with skill and experience, (you need) favourable circumstances but that was not the case,” he added.