France frustrated by anthem jeers against Tunisia

الأربعاء، 15 أكتوبر 2008 - 12:56

كتب : Omar AbdelAziz

Tunisian fans caused havoc in Paris

France president Nicolas Sarkozy will open an investigation after the French national anthem was jeered in Tuesday's 3-1 friendly win over Tunisia in Paris, the Elysee Palace announced.

Les Marseilles was met by boos and jeers as Thierry Henry notched two goals to steer Les Bleus past the North African giants.

Sarkozy was infuriated by the 'scandalous' incident at Stade de France, as he summoned president of the French Football Federation Jean-Pierre Escalettes on Wednesday.

The meeting will also witness the presence of Roselyne Bachelot, Minister of Health and Sports, as well as Bernard Laporte, Secretary of State for Sports.

Laporte has reportedly suggested that France should abandon friendlies with nations from the Maghreb region in the future.

French Prime Minister Francois Fillon reflected the anger inside the presidency in the wake of the incident, which was mainly caused by the away supporters.

Insulting

It's insulting for France, for the players on the French team," Prime Minister Fillon told RTL Radio.

"Matches should be stopped whenever national anthems, whichever ones they are, get whistled at.

"It's a lack of consideration and respect for an entire nation."

France captain Henry also sounded his dismay by the taunts, which included booing the names of some France players prior to the kickoff.

"It's not easy playing at home and getting jeered." The Barcelona forward said.

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