"Maignan save worth a goal" - Deschamps hails Milan goalkeeper after win over Ireland

After a 4-0 win over the Netherlands in their opening Group B clash, France beat the Republic of Ireland with one goal in the Euro 2024 qualifier on Monday.

Milan goalkeeper Maignan who has become France's number one saved his team with a fantastic late stop.

"There is a lot of positive with six points, five goals and none conceded,

" said Deschamps in quotes reported by L'Equipe.

"The calendar had not given us gifts with the Netherlands and Ireland. We were less radiant today than Friday. We had fewer opportunities but we have to win these matches.

"The team showed a very good state of mind and character. There is Mike's stop. It's worth a goal. We were able to answer and being less brilliant than in the first game. Ireland defended well. I am happy and proud of this group against two opponents like that. It's really good to have already taken these six points."

Of Maignan's save, he added:

"It's an exceptional stop. But I'm not surprised. I know what he is capable of doing. Hugo was also capable of such stops of his kind. Mike has all the qualities, the wingspan and the mind. He is a leader.

"There was already the penalty stopped against the Netherlands. But this stop is even more expensive. I had no doubts and uncertainties about the succession. When Mike is in full possession of his means, he is of a very high level."

Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard scored the only goal of the match with a powerful strike from outside the area.

"He had a very complicated match at the beginning of the World Cup,"

Deschamps said of Pavard.

"He had been a starter in previous years. He played the first game and Jules [Kounde] took his place.

"After this goal, I told him that I was very happy for him. Despite his personal disappointment, he has always kept the state of mind.

"He enjoyed his playing time in his club. It's very good for him and especially for the group."

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