It wouldn't be a World Cup without a French controversy. Ahead of this summer's tournament Deschamps took the decision to omit Samir Nasri from his final squad, the outspoken Man City midfielder had enjoyed a strong season with his club side but was seen as too volatile a figure for his national manager. Many wondered whether Les Bleus would struggle without Nasri's creativity but proved in their first game against Honduras that this is a French team full of skilful midfielders. Mathieu Valbuena and Paul Pogba excelled against a Honduras team that tackled like an over 40's five-a-side football team; late and dangerous. With Karim Benzema continuing his fine international form upfront, France could be one of the dark horses for the tournament if they can manage to keep their squad harmonious. Key Moment: After some unnecessary debate goal line technology was used for the first time in this World Cup to confirm Benzema's vicious strike had hit the back of the net via a fumble from the Honduran keeper.
