Switzerland Holds France to 0-0 Draw

By ROBERT MILLWARD

STUTTGART, Germany – France was held to a 0-0 draw by Switzerland on Tuesday, bringing back memories of its early exit from the last tournament four years ago.

The last time the French team scored in a World Cup game was when they beat Brazil 3-0 in the 1998 final. Switzerland also held France to draws in two qualifying games.

Despite being forced to play as a lone striker, Thierry Henry went close with three shots and a header in the first half, while Zinedine Zidane’s deft touches set up the best French moves.

Switzerland almost went ahead in the 23rd minute, however, when Tranquillo Barnetta sent a free kick into the area but Philippe Senderos and Alexander Frei both failed to get a touch and the ball hit the post.

Fabien Barthez, one of five players who won the World Cup with France in 1998, rescued Les Bleus with a near-post block to keep out a header from Switzerland substitute Daniel Gygax in the 65th minute.

France coach Raymond Domenech gave Henry some help by sending on Manchester United striker Louis Saha with 20 minutes to go.

France lost to Senegal and Denmark at the last World Cup and left after the first round.

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Lineups:

France: Fabien Barthez, Willy Sagnol, Lilian Thuram, William Gallas, Eric Abidal, Patrick Vieira, Claude Makelele, Franck Ribery (Louis Saha, 70th), Zinedine Zidane, Sylvain Wiltord (Vikash Dhorasoo, 84th), Thierry Henry.

Switzerland: Pascal Zuberbuehler, Ludovic Magnin, Philippe Senderos, Philipp Degen, Patrick Mueller (Johan Djourou, 75th), Johann Vogel, Tranquillo Barnetta, Ricardo Cabanas, Raphael Wicky (Xavier Margairaz, 82nd), Alexander Frei, Marco Streller (Daniel Gygax, 56th).