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Clichy, Diaby, Gallas & Sagna play in France defeat

Hosts South Africa grabbed their first win of the 2010 World Cup by defeating France 2-1 but it failed to put them through to the second phase.

‘Bafana Bafana’ gave their fans the perfect gift in the 20th minute when central defender Bongani Khumalo nodded home from a Siphiwe Tshabalala corner.

The day only got worse for France five minutes later when midfielder Yoann Gourcuff was sent off for an aerial challenge on MacBeth Sibaya which looked a bit harsh for a straight red.

In the 37th minute, South Africa went up 2-0 when Katlego Mphela finished with ease after a cross from Tsepo Masilela sending the Bloemfontein crowd into a frenzy.

France were making a better fist of things early in the second term and welcomed former Gunner Thierry Henry onto the pitch in the 55th minute to equal Fabien Barthez’s record of 17 World Cup finals appearances.

Down the other end, Mphela was causing problems for the Les Bleus defence as his side enjoyed more possession but finally France scored their first goal of the tournament when Florent Malouda hit the target in the 70th minute after Franck Ribery teed him up in front of an empty net.

The home side needed another few goals if they were any chance of pushing through to the Round of 16 but they didn’t come and the dream of the Rainbow Nation was over as was a disastrous World Cup for the French.

Ratings:

Bacary Sagna– 6 – Composed. Did well with Diaby in the build up to the consolation goal.

William Gallas– 5 – The Juventus-bound defender was average and showed no motivation throughout the match.

Gael Clichy– 7 – Came into the team for skipper Evra and had a decent game. Couldn’t prevent the opener.

Abou Diaby– 6 – Involved in the build-up to the consolation with Sagna. Definitely one of the better France players.

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