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France Keeps Coach after World Cup Final Defeat

The French Football Federation gave word on Tuesday that Raymond Domenech will remain in his position as coach. Although France lost to Italy on World Cup 2006`s final, the fact that Domenech took the team all the way to the final is considered to be a great success. "Taking into account the excellent performance of France during the World Cup, the federal committee unanimously offered Raymond Domenech the chance to carry on his mission as national coach," a statement said.

Domenech will has a new challenge to face starting September when France begins its Euro 2008 qualifying program. "I`m proud of this team and I`m proud of Raymond Domenech," federation chairperson Jean-Pierre Escalettes told a news conference. "Many of our dreams came true (during the World Cup). The players honored the blue shirt with their commitment."

The details of the contract have not been discussed yet and the FFF must sit with Domenech to close all loose ends. One month from now, on August 16, France will play against Bosnia-Herzegovina in Sarajevo for a friendly match, and the team must be ready by then.