Sports / Soccer

England beat France on night of solidarity at Wembley

(Agencies) Updated: 2015-11-18 10:39

England beat France on night of solidarity at Wembley

The arch at Wembley stadium is lit in the colours of France's flag, and France's motto "Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite" emblazoned on Wembley stadium in north London, November 16, 2015. [Photo/Agencies] 

DIFFICULT NIGHT

The unusual nature of the occasion was clear during the game with the crowd applauding France substitutes Lassana Diarra and Antoine Griezmann when they came on in the second half.

A cousin of Diarra's was killed in Friday's attacks, while Griezmann's sister escaped unhurt from the Bataclan concert venue where 89 people lost their lives.

There was hardly a foul during the game and afterwards the fans and the England team roundly applauded the France players.

"It was a difficult night for everyone, especially for the French players and staff," Rooney said.

"I thought both teams handled it really well. I'm sure this will get shown round the world and show the togetherness and unity in ourselves and France and in football.

"As Didier Deschamps said, it's not about religion, it's not about race, it's about togetherness.

"Anyone can play the game of football and hopefully tonight shows whoever you are around the world, you can come together. We need to stand tall and stand together at this tough time."

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