DBasia.news – Anthony Martial was in the spotlight when the French national team traveled to Ukraine in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers. His single goal saved Les Bleus from defeat.
In the match which took place at NSC Olimpiyskiy, the two teams drew 1-1. These results confirmed the position of France at the top of the standings.
France coach Didier Deschamps made a surprise in setting the line-up. He installed Martial as a starter despite having Karim Benzema.
The decision was almost a blunder. Martial appeared less than perfect in the first half and wasted a golden opportunity.
Conditions were exacerbated by the success of Ukraine who scored the opening goal. Mykola Shaparenko defeated Hugo Lloris with a curling shot near the end of the first half.
But Deschamps’ bet on Martial finally paid off. Five minutes after the second half started, the Manchester United striker scored an equalizer.
Martial’s goal was sheer luck as he received a wild ball in the goal. But this moment has an important meaning for the 25-year-old player.
It was Martial’s second goal in the history of the French national team. He had to wait about five years to do so.
Martial’s career has had its ups and downs both at club and national team. His first goal for France was scored against Italy in a friendly match, September 1, 2016.
But since then, Martial’s career has faded. He was even ignored by Deschamps when competing in the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020.
No wonder Martial welcomed this goal emotionally. He felt a relief from the long wait.
“It feels like I haven’t scored for the French national team in a long time. It feels great,” Martial said on UEFA’s official website.
This goal could be a turning point for Martial to rise. At least he is more confident now.
Martial must immediately return to his best form to win a place on the front lines of Manchester United. The competition is getting fiercer after the Red Devils brought in Jadon Sancho and Cristiano Ronaldo this summer.