Shaken France must find way to stop Spain

But while France had arguably the better players when they last met in a tournament at the 2006 World Cup, this time the French must find a way to stop the reigning European champions from dictating the game in Saturdays quarterfinal.That looks even more difficult considering how Frances defense capitulated in the 2-0 defeat to Sweden on Tuesday, and the fact it will have a makeshift center half pairing of Laurent Koscielny and Adil Rami for the game.We have to believe, even though that will make some people smile after (the Sweden) match, France coach Laurent Blanc said. If we manage to keep the ball more than Spain it will be an accomplishment, although it doesnt guarantee victory. We have to take our chances.Tournament history weighs heavily in Frances favor.Les Bleus won 3-1 in the last 16 of the World Cup six years ago, won 2-1 in the quarterfinals at Euro 2000 and 2-0 in the 1984 Euro final. France also beat Spain home and away in Euro 92 qualifiers, and drew 1-1 in the group stage at Euro 96.Nice for the record books, but of little help on Saturday, especially in the intense heat of Donetsk.The problem is that we are going to have to have to run and run a lot and also close down space, even though they always seem to find some, Blanc said. I dont think Spain has just one strength, they have many. I like their way of playing. Not only is it pleasant to watch but its efficient and spectacular. We have to try and match that, but were a long way off.Blanc was impressed by the way Croatia took the game to Spain in their final group game before losing 1-0 to a late goal.You need heart when you play Spain, Blanc said. If you look at Croatia, there was an incredible bond between their players.That was not the case against Sweden, with France falling apart on the field and then having a bust-up in the dressing room afterward.Sweden dominated us in every area, especially in terms of athletic strength, mental strength and even technique, Blanc said. If Saturday is like that we can expect a very, very hard game.With Philippe Mexes suspended, Arsenal defender Koscielny is set to make his first appearance of the tournament alongside Rami, who plays for Spanish club Valencia.Their only full match together was a friendly against the United States last November hardly ideal preparation to stop arguably the slickest attacking machine in world football.