Benzema ready to step up for Bosnian challenge

Today: Bosnia v France
(SS4 10 p.m. LIVE)

France’s Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema on Sunday declared himself fit and up for the challenge of reviving his country’s battered footballing fortunes in tonight’s second Euro 2012 qualifier against Bosnia. The 22-year-old scorer of eight goals in his 28 appearances for France has fortunately for coach Laurent Blanc recovered from an ankle injury which ruled him out of the opening 1-0 home defeat by Belarus on Friday.

Benzema is certain to lead the line tonight in what should prove to be a real test against a Bosnian side that just failed to reach the World Cup finals. Blanc appearing on the same programme praised Benzema, whose attitude has not always charmed his team-mates.