French football team return to hostile reception

The French football team is set to arrive at 1130 local time at Bourget airport outside Paris where a large security presence has been deployed. The 22 players, staff and the President of the French football Federation (FFF) Jean-Pierre Escalettes left their luxury hotel in Knysna, 50 kilometres outside of George yesterday evening. 

Reuters

The French striker Thierry Henry is set to meet with French President Nicolas Sarkozy on Thursday to discuss the debacle.

"The head of state asked the ministers to ensure that those responsible learn the lessons of this disaster quickly,'' Sarkozy's press department said. "He also asked the ministers to ensure that no financial reward is given.''

The French performance was marked by two defeats, one draw, a player strike, dressing room squabbles and a single goal.