France began the Zinédine Zidane era with a hard-earned 1-0 Nations League win over Turkey on Friday, surviving a difficult pitch and an intense home atmosphere to deliver a controlled first result.
The new France coach described the night as emotional, particularly because it was his first match in charge. He was pleased with how quickly his players absorbed the plan after only three and a half training sessions together.
Quick facts
- France defeated Turkey 1-0 in the Nations League on Friday.
- It was Zidane’s first game as France head coach.
- Zidane highlighted high pressing, balance and counter-pressing after turnovers.
- Kylian Mbappé started from a wide position as France varied their attacking shape.
- Rayan Cherki impressed in midfield, while Mike Maignan was praised for his authority.
- Fabien Barthez was heavily involved with the goalkeepers and substitutes.
Zidane felt France set the tone before the interval, pressing Turkey high and preventing the hosts from developing their game. “We did what was needed,” he said, stressing that his side had shown several encouraging signs despite their limited preparation time.
France were less secure at the beginning of the second half, when Turkey increased their physical output and pushed the visitors back. Zidane, however, was satisfied that his team quickly regained control rather than losing its grip on the contest.
For the former Real Madrid coach, collective balance will be central to the next stage of his work. France possess elite individual talent, he said, but the structure of the side matters most, especially when the team has possession.
He pointed to the work immediately after losing the ball as a major positive. France pressed forward, recovered shape and applied the principles introduced during the short camp.
Mbappé’s starting role on the flank was part of Zidane’s wish to make France adaptable in attack. The coach noted that the forward has operated across the front line throughout his career and can be used in different positions without concern.
Cherki was also singled out after operating as a central midfielder. Zidane praised the Lyon player’s quality in possession, but placed equal emphasis on his discipline without the ball.
The coach said Cherki maintained the required distances alongside the other midfielders, dropped back into the defensive block at the right moments and made important recoveries between the lines. It was a complete midfield display rather than simply an exhibition of technique.
Maignan’s personality also drew approval. Zidane liked the goalkeeper’s communication with his defenders, while noting the importance placed on his preparation for set pieces.
Barthez, part of Zidane’s staff, was described as fully committed throughout the evening. Zidane said the former France goalkeeper spoke before and during the match, remained engaged with the players who entered from the bench and brought particular energy to his work with the goalkeeping group.
