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UNDER 17 CHAMPIONSHIP: Smerecki eyeing last-four finish

/noticias.info/ France Under-17 coach Francis Smerecki praised his players after they topped "a very strong group" to book their place at the UEFA European Under-17 Championship.

England comeback
Drawn alongside England, Russia and hosts Israel in Elite round Group 3, Les Mini-Bleus knew they were in for a tough time as they bid for top spot and a ticket to the finals in Turkey between 4 and 16 May. A 1-1 draw with England was not an ideal start, but they beat the home side 3-2 and won through by overcoming Russia 3-1. "The first game was key for us as we managed to come back against England," said Smerecki. "My concern then was whether the guys would be able to repeat the efforts they made in that first match in the two other games over the next five days."

Physical improvement
In the end they proved more than capable, edging a tough win over Israel before racking up three goals for a second time against Russia. "[The players] managed to improve their technique and, above all, their physical level, which traditionally was a weak area for us," said Smerecki. "Consistency over a short period of time when you've got tough games to play will also be the key for us during the finals. We really hope we can reach the last four. Ironically, the group stage will be easier for us than the Elite round as two teams advance." notas_de_prensa_archivo