Benzema happy to avoid defeat

France striker Karim Benzema insists it was imperative his team avoided defeat against Uruguay on Wednesday.

France were unable to find the net in their first game under new coach Didier Deschamps, as both sides fought out a stalemate.

But Real Madrid striker Benzema was satisfied with the final outcome.

“We lacked a bit of freshness, but it was essential not to lose the game. Overall, it was a positive performance,” Benzema told L’Equipe.

“We have a new team with some new players. We did our utmost to win the match and got some chances toward the end.”

Meanwhile, Toulouse midfielder Etienne Capoue was thrilled to make his first official appearance for France.

“Even if we didn’t score, we played a good game,” he said.

“For my first cap, my team-mates made me comfortable. Didier Deschamps told me to be myself and to enjoy it. It was great to be here.”

France take on Finland in their next match on September 6.