There was no link between defence to midfield and midfield to attack. Almost every assault that Les Bleus launched was easily handled and dealt with by the Mexican rearguard. All clear signs of a distinct lack of harmony in the squad.

Despite the loss, France are still not out of the World Cup yet, but they do need a helping hand, from Mexico and Uruguay as well as from themselves. But who can save the French this time?

It surely can't be Thierry Henry, who looked like he was half asleep under cozy blankets on the bench when his compatriots were a goal down.

Jeremy Toulalan and Abou Diaby were the best players in blue against El Tri, but even after the interval, they sank together with the team.

In any case, Toulalan will be suspended for the last game while Diaby, as good as he has been for France in the tournament so far, doesn't look like he is capable of carrying the hopes of a nation.

Franck Ribery showed plenty of gusto against Mexico, but he had too much to do on his own as he was constantly being double-teamed and harassed off the ball.

Unless drastic changes are made, he is likely to suffer similar treatment against South Africa no matter how much gusto he has.