France improving, warn Cyprus

CYPRUS manager Motsa Vukotic has warned the Republic of Ireland that an improving France could beat the Republic of Ireland in Dublin next year.

Speaking about his team’s 2-0 defeat by the French in Nicosia on Wednesday night, Vukotic said: “France are finding their feet with a new team, but I see many possibilities for them in the future. It’s just a question of time before they regain their level.”

The Cyprus boss believes anything is possible in Group 4: “It’s very open. The Irish may have a slight advantage, but France could very well take three points in Dublin.”

Cyprus play Israel at home on November 17, and four Israeli players carry yellow cards. Defender Ariel Benado and midfielders Walid Badeer, Omer Golan and Afek Omri will go into the match in Nicosia with one booking and must avoid seeing yellow if they are to play against Ireland in Tel Aviv next March.