World Cup 2014: Hyped France attack fails to deliver

Rio de Janeiro: Despite the hype about its attacking flair, France failed to deliver the goals in the World Cup quarter-finals.

The 1998 champions lacked conviction going forward after missing two early opportunities and eventually lost to Germany 1-0 on Friday.

Karim Benzema, who scored three goals in France's opening two matches, failed to score for the third straight game.

He did have a chance to equalize in injury time, but Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer blocked his shot after Benzema had played an excellent one-two with substitute Olivier Giroud.

A dejected Benzema sat slumped in despair after the final whistle, while forward Antoine Griezmann had to be comforted as he burst into tears.