Today, the whole of the footballing world had its eyes on Russia, where the draw for next year’s World Cup 2018 took place. The Aiglons didn’t break the rules as they followed the ceremony live from the dressing room after their training session. In with a shot of being at the tournament with France and Tunisia, Christophe Jallet and Bassem Srarfi followed the draw with particular attention.

Christophe Jallet: “The opponent that I know best? Denmark. I played in the last two games in Copenhagen and in St Etienne. We won both of the games. They didn’t manage to qualify for the last Euros, but they have got the pendulum swinging again in time for the World Cup. They are a European opponent with quality, they are solid, with some big players.

Although France come off the back of a good game against Australia in 2013 (6-0), the men from down-under are used to the World Cup. They are experienced with these kind of encounters, where they have little to lose. I know a bit less about Peru, but to qualify in South America, they must be strong. They are obviously a side with real quality.

It’s difficult to say today if the draw is favourable or not. Of course, we have avoided the big European nations that put a bit of fear in you like Spain, England or Croatia. It’s best to not come up against them, to give us the best possible chance of qualifying.

This draw marks a first step. To play in a World Cup is every player’s dream, of course. It could be my last big international adventure. I hope to be a part of it. But everyone still has six months of intense work to put in in order to be in the best possible form and to be able to represent the colours of our country.”

Bassem Srarfi: “I found out my group on television, with my teammates. It will be difficult because Belgium and England are two big sides, with some big players. Eden Hazard, for example, he is something else. I hope to be called up and to take part in this World Cup. The objective will be to get out of our group, and we will give our all in order to do so.”

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