France Have Date With Destiny

Having underperformed in the earlier qualifying rounds, european soccer powers France have a date with destiny on Wednesday 12th October.

Both nations must win to ensure they participate in the world's biggest sporting event. - The FIFA World Cup.

France let slip their chance of booking their place in the final stages of next year's World Cup by turning in another poor performance against Switzerland in Berne on Saturday night - and now must win against Cyprus in Paris next Wednesday while hoping the Rep. of Ireland beat, or at least hold, Switzerland to a draw in Dublin on the same day.

Israel currently top Group 4 with 18 points - but have played all their ten matches. France and Switzerland have played nine games and both have 17 points, while the Rep of Ireland (played nine), are in fourth place with 16 points.

Switzerland (+11) have a better goal difference than France (+8) and therefore head France in the standings.

Should the Swiss win in Dublin - France would have to overcome Cyprus by at least three clear goals to change that difference.

Cyprus are second bottom of Group 4 and lost 0:2 to France in the reverse fixture in Nicosia - while Switzerland and Ireland drew 1:1 when they met in Basel.