France are on the brink of reaching the World Cup last 16 after their emphatic 5-2 win over Switzerland on Friday kept them firmly in control of Group E.
The French backed up their opening 3-0 win over Honduras by racing into a 2-0 lead as Olivier Giroud’s 16th-minute header was followed by Blaise Matuidi’s goal just 66 seconds later.
Diminutive right-winger Mathieu Valbuena put the result beyond doubt with France’s third just before the break.
Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema missed a first-half penalty, but then netted their fourth before Newcastle United’s midfielder Moussa Sissoko also claimed a second-half goal.
Only the heroics of Swiss goalkeeper Diego Benaglio prevented more French goals before Blerim Dzemaili and Granit Xhaka scored late consolation goals.
“This could have been more than perfect,” said France coach Didier Deschamps.
“We were up against a good team and to score five goals and win 5-2, it was a very good evening.
“Six points after two matches is ideal. We have to wait for the next match but we have a good goal difference and the next match will decide first and second place.”
France will have their last 16 qualification confirmed unless Ecuador beat Honduras later Friday in Curitiba.
The Swiss, who have not beaten France since 1992, may now need to beat Honduras next Wednesday to qualify for the last 16. They beat Ecuador 2-1 in their opener.
“I’m very disappointed by our defeat, it was a very bleak day for us,” said Swiss coach Ottmar .
