France forward Maghnes Akliouche says he is “proud” after bagging his first goal for France on Sunday.
The Monaco youngster got on the scoresheet in Les Bleus’ World Cup qualifying win over Azerbaijan, with Jean-Philippe Mateta also getting on the scoresheet.
Speaking after the game, he said: “I’m very proud to have scored my first goal for Les Bleus. There’s always a bit of pressure, but it’s good pressure for me.
“Being good and decisive is important for an attacking player. I’m happy today. Little by little, from one selection to the next, I can feel that I’m becoming more and more comfortable, both with the group and on the pitch. That’s important for me.”
France rounded off their campaign in style, and only dropped points once on their way to topping a group that included Ukraine, Iceland and Azerbaijan.
Qualification was already wrapped up heading to Baku, allowing head coach Didier Deschamps to shuffle his pack for the final game.
One player who benefitted from some minutes was PSG midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery, who admitted he was relieved to get the win.
He added: “The most important thing is that the job is done. It’s true that there were two different halves, we managed to raise our level.
“These are complicated matches when you know that you are already qualified. But we are the French team, we have to win every match and show a good face.
“I feel good personally, confident. I went back down to the U21s for that reason. Since then, things have been going well. Maybe I feel better mentally too.
“The most important thing is to keep going to be good at club level and come back here. There will always be competition in the French national team. I’m preparing myself in the best way possible. I’m going to do everything I can to be the best at club level.
“Every player dreams of winning the World Cup. Some have already won it in this group. It will be a pleasure to be there and help the team as much as possible.”
France now awaits the World Cup draw to see who they will face in the group stages in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
