France 2-0 Togo

France can finally heave a sigh of relief as they won their first World Cup match in 8 years by scoring two goals against Togo and moved into the second round.

David Trezeguet and Frank Ribery started this match and the striker had a few chances but the first half did not yield any goals. The French supporters can be forgiven if they thought the end is nigh. Fortunately, in the 55th minute, Vieira turns inside the area and curls the ball into the corner of the net with his right foot after a Ribery pass.

Then in the 61st minute, Henry fires into the corner with his right foot from near the penalty spot after a brave downward header from Vieira. Score 2-0 and the French are through to the last 16. The goal by Henry resulted in a wild celebration for the Les Bleus' and it is his best possible answer to the critics.

Soccer Pundit wonders if this is the start of a French revival or just a final struggle to salvage some pride. Henry is as dangerous as he can ever be but the team still cannot find the much needed creative spark nor impose their authority in the match. The addition of Frank Ribery in the first XI is a positive and it is time for the team to discard the old baggage.

During their time, the class of '98 have brought glory to the French cause by sweeping the major tournaments (World Cup and European Cup) but now, it is almost painful to watch these old warhorses challenging and losing out to the pace, stamina and trickery of other teams. Soccer Pundit cannot imagine them going into foot races with an African team for a full 90 minutes. Let this be their final shot at glory, after that the French have to dismantle this team and induct fresh, young talents. Meanwhile, Spain awaits....