Zinedine Zidane identifies France’s attacking problem

Zinedine Zidane has pinpointed France’s recurring attacking weakness after a strong opening spell as coach: his team is not putting enough players into the penalty area. The issue has persisted across the campaign and remains a clear area for improvement despite France leading its Nations League group.

France has recorded three wins and one draw in its first four matches. The latest victory was a 4-1 comeback, secured after the team had fallen 1-0 behind and was still trailing at the start of the final quarter. That result followed a 1-1 draw with Italy at the Stade de France, leaving France in first place and able to secure qualification against the same opponents on November 12.

Zidane also highlighted the need for greater vertical play and more speed in the final 20 to 30 metres. France controlled much of the latest match but lacked precision in dangerous areas before changing the course of the game late on. Crosses, runs beyond the defence and short passes into the box did not receive enough support, limiting the value of the team’s attacking moves. The four-match record is positive, but the coach’s assessment shows that France’s progress is still tied to improving its presence and intensity near goal.