"Swish!" The football hit the net, helping Belgium claw back one more, slightly clearing the gloom.
But in the 80th minute of the subsequent game, Giroud received a cross from Menez and scored a header, maintaining the two-goal lead.
"Substitution?"
On the sidelines, Deschamps' assistant noticed Ma'el was gradually slowing down, "He's been chasing the ball throughout the first half, his energy must be nearly exhausted."
"Get Malouda warmed up."
Deschamps nodded in agreement, he certainly wouldn't overuse Ma'el, it's still important to protect the players.
From any perspective, Ma'el's performance today was nothing short of perfect, his level always seemed a step ahead of others, as if always quicker by a beat.
When playing, Deschamps' position was a midfielder..... but his impact was strong, he liked to suddenly accelerate the team's rhythm by his own strength!
It's physical ability!
And football intelligence!
