The Real Madrid attacker has admitted that it will not be easy for les Bleus, but is confident that they can still turn things around after their 2-0 defeat to Ukraine on Friday

Karim Benzema insists France can still reach the World Cup despite their 2-0 loss against Ukraine on Friday in the first leg of their qualification play-off.

Second-half goals from Roman Zozulya and Andriy Yarmolenko saw France leave the pitch empty handed and they face a tough task to turn things around in the return leg on Tuesday.

"There is still a second leg at the Stade de France. We know that it will not be easy, but we are not giving up," Benzema told reporters.

"We were ready for them and knew we were in for a tough task. It's not as if they were more determined than we were. They outmuscled us with their physical approach.

"Theoretically speaking, we are the better team. It's not just about talent, though. The physical aspect is important, too."

The second leg will take place at the Stade de France on Tuesday.