Koscielny urges France to be fearless

France defender Laurent Koscielny believes his team will play without fear when they meet Spain in the quarter-finals of Euro 2012.

Laurent Blanc’s team go into the clash as underdogs after their 2-0 capitulation against Sweden on the final day of Group D action, but the 26-year-old is adamant the setback will hold no weight on the side as they prepare for the upcoming match.

“It will be a stimulating challenge playing against the defending champions,” Koscielny told reporters.

“We have nothing to lose. I do not see why we would have to fear them, rather we should be taking fun from it.

“I think that Spain resembles the current Barcelona team. I know Fernando Torres well because I have played against him in England.

“Nevertheless, they are a collective team. He will not be their only threat, but we will prepare ourselves to be there on Saturday.”

The daunting task of keeping the Spanish forward line quiet will fall on Koscielny’s shoulders, especially as Philippe Mexes will be suspended for the encounter.

“I feel good physically. Mexes’ yellow card (against Sweden) was unfortunate, but we must ensure the defence continues calmly,” he said.

“The game against Spain will be a great chance to prove I deserve my place on the field.”