France may have named an experimental side against Norway, but will be disappointed to have lost 2-1.
Huseklepp ensures Blanc's reign begins with defeat
France may have named an experimental side against Norway, but will be disappointed to have lost 2-1.
In their first game since a farcical showing at the 2010 World Cup, Les Bleus were hoping for a reversal in fortune.
However, Laurent Blanc, who has replaced the much-maligned Raymond Domenech at the helm, saw his reign begin on the back foot.
Two goals from Erik Huseklepp proved to be France's undoing, as they could only muster a solitary effort from Hatem Ben Arfa.
The Marseille man, who continues to be linked with a move to Newcastle, opened the scoring in a lively encounter shortly after the interval.
Counter
However, Huseklepp levelled through a deflected free-kick moments later and netted the winner 20 minutes from time following a swift counter-attack by the hosts.
France have now gone 22 years since they last tasted victory over Norway, but did at least show more initiative than those who represented the nation in South Africa.
Blanc chose not to select any of those who tarnished the country's image this summer, fielding six debutants in his starting line-up.
It now remains to be seen whether he will return to the old guard for the upcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers or keep faith with the new era of French talent.
