How they got there: France suffered a huge upset when beaten 1-0 by Scotland on October 7, 2006, their first European Championship qualifying defeat since 1999. France only just qualified for Euro 2008 two points clear of Scotland when the latter was beaten by Italy.
Coach - Raymond Domenech: The former under-21 coach is never shy to offer an opinion, even if it alienates him from his players or peers. His record so far though is impressive.
Star player - Thierry Henry: The Barcelona forward is a superstar but has yet to truly shine on the international stage. At 30 he is fast running out of opportunities, but six goals in eight qualifiers suggest he could at last be ready to lead France to glory.
Tactics: Domenech is expected to go for a 4-4-2 or a 4-3-1-2, depending on how much freedom he plans to afford to the dynamic Franck Ribery.
Strengths: France look potent going forward, with Henry set to be partnered by Lyon hotshot Karim Benzema and the pace and guile of Nicolas Anelka in reserve.
Weaknesses: Domenech has been criticised for being overly cautious in past tournaments despite the talent available to him, and Les Bleus must avoid being crippled by expectancy.
Verdict: If they emerge from a fiendishly tough group, they are a good bet to reach the final.
If they were a band they would be: Daft Punk
Helpful translation: "Ne moi faites pas s'il vous plaît vous asseoir à côté d'anelka" is "Please don't make me sit next to Anelka".
Euro 2008 - Official ball and replica balls
