体坛英语新闻：Hitzfeld stays low ahead of clash against France

SALVADOR, Brazil, June, 19 (Xinhua) -- Swizterland coach Ottmar Hitzfeld chose to keep a low profile ahead of Friday's second round Group E match against France, saying that the French team moves like a machine.

"France remains great lately. The team found their rhythm since the 3-0 victory against Ukraine (the second round World Cup qualification play-off). The team became extremely flexible and moves like a machine," said Hitzfeld during a pre-match news conference here on Thursday.

Switzerland enjoyed an unbeaten run in the qualifiers for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and ranked No. 6 in FIFA rankings, 11 positions higher than France. But Hitzfeld believed both sides shared an equal footing and Switzerland need to pay much attention in counter-attacking.

"France played very well against us and we always played well against them. We have a special relationship. We are two neighbors then this is like a derby. Now we want to mark a page in history. I think, against France, I must push my team to its limits," the 65-year-old German said.

Switzerland edged past Ecuador 2-1 thanks to a last-gasp goal from substitute Haris Seferovic in their first group match on Sunday, while France overwhelmed Honduras 3-0 with two goal from star striker Karim Benzema.