GIOVANNI Trapattoni won't deviate. He is upbeat and still believes that there will be chances in Paris -- even if the rest of the nation is inclined to be less optimistic.

After 24 hours to reflect on the game, he focused on the fact that France have conceded goals at home in the qualifying group and they need for renewed energy and confidence

"France have conceded goals many times. We saw the goals France conceded. I think it's possible because France are a strong team but they finished second like us. We didn't lose a game, they lost one," he said, fishing around for positives.

"Yesterday after the game I was a little bit sad because we didn't deserve to lose. Sure, France had more possession of the ball but we had the same chances. We played like them in the first half and we had the same chances."

"We must take the positives from the situation and not think too much about the result because, in the end, football can come down to a deflection, the crossbar, the referee -- there are many situations which can change the result.

We had a good reaction. I am also confident about our qualification because we always score always away from home -- in all five games. That is my trust. That is what I said to the team yesterday morning."

OPPORTUNITY

"We have in Paris the same opportunity. Football makes us suffer but we must think about this situation. This balance, performance, mentality must be the same," he said.

Trapattoni is contemplating changes but his options are limited and he is not considering anything major.

"It will be important not to change immediately or make two or three changes on the pitch. I must think about this. Some players lose energy. We have two days. I must think about experience and balance. We have only 90 minutes of hope to go to South Africa. Any changes could be crucial."

Trapattoni is not contemplating any deviation from his game plan, and the notion of taking more risks in Paris was ruled out instantly.

"Man against man they are very dangerous. Risk is not OK. We remember the risks that were taken in the past. I don't want to concede five goals, three goals and two goals. One-nil is enough for us.

"I said this is a game for calm heads. Sure, maybe we take risks in the last minute if we need to score, but if we go forward and concede goals it's finished," he added.

Trapattoni easily identified the factors that led to the all-important goal: "We allowed them space, which we do not usually concede to other teams. It's something we have to consider. We cannot allow them to play like that in Paris. We must be more aggressive in this situation without running any risks.

"I am confident because the team was a little bit disappointed, sad but, sure, I know my team. They have character. They are proud. We must get the same reaction -- like our fans."

- Paul Hyland