Clichy accepts French flop

Gael Clichy has conceded that France played poorly in their 2-0 Euro 2012 Group D defeat against Sweden on Tuesday.

Les Bleus started the continental tournament with a draw against England before beating co-hosts Ukraine in their second game, but they were unable to complete the group phase on a winning note against the Swedes.

Clichy said fatigue played a small part in the reverse, but admitted that the team must accept they performed below par.

“We wanted to win, but we came up against a very good team with great players. We have to acknowledge that we played poorly,” Clichy told reporters.

“We were a bit tired because of the heat and the fact that some players have taken part in three games in (nine) days, but that goes for every team. We could have done better defensively and be more creative offensively. But there’s nothing to worry about.”

The left-back then looked ahead to the quarter-final match against Spain, and said France are ready to face the defending champions despite seeing their undefeated streak come to an end.

“The end of our 23-game unbeaten run is not a big deal. It doesn’t change what we’ve achieved over the past two years,” the Manchester City man said.

“It means we now face a quarter-final against Spain, but if you want to win the tournament you have to beat everybody. It’s going to be a great game to be involved in.”