SOFIA (Reuters) - Blaise Matuidi's early goal was enough to take France to the brink of the World Cup finals as they secured a 1-0 away win against Bulgaria on Saturday. France are assured of at least a playoff place, with the best eight second-placed teams going through to the two-legged playoffs. We did not play a good second half as we did not get an opportunity," said France coach Didier Deschamps. However, I was confident (that we would qualify for the World Cup) before the game, and I am even more confident now." Bulgaria pushed harder in the second half but France were always in control as they snatched their first away win against Bulgaria since 1932.

Source: The Star October 07, 2017 20:37 UTC