Home win at last for Domenech

FRANCE coach Raymond Domenech breathed a sigh of relief after his side notched their first home victory under his guidance with a 2-1 friendly win over Hungary on Tuesday.

Domenech’s men produced a sparkling performance in the first half, during which Djibril Cisse and Florent Malouda scored, but were physically overwhelmed by Hungary after the interval.

Since Domenech took over from Jacques Santini last July, France have been held to six consecutive home draws, including World Cup qualifiers against Switzerland, Ireland and Israel.

France showed glimpses of their talent against Hungary but the absence of inspirational players such as the retired Zinedine Zidane, Lilian Thuram and Claude Makelele was obvious when they were put under pressure.