Football Focus Highlight

France likely to qualify for the World Cup finals in 2010 after Nicholas Anelka scored to ensure a single 1-0 victory over hosts Ireland in the first meeting of the European zone playoffs in Croke Park Dublin, Saturday (14/11).

France, 1998 world champion and finalist in 2006, can silence the Irish fans who filled Croke Park after Anelka shot in the 72nd minute hit the defender Sean St Ledger and then hit the post and nestled in the host's goal.

In the first round of the game running the ball balanced and flowing between the two teams defense area. French striker Andre-Pierre Gignac had netted a goal but was canceled due to offside position.

Other French players, Lassana Diarra is also almost scored a goal in the second half. Opportunities of Ireland as Robbie Keane tried to penetrate the French defense, but the referee said no offense.

At the second meeting, 18 November, France will host. Winner of a total of two meetings will be entitled to a ticket to South Africa.