Blanc rues early goal but defends cautious tactics

France coach Laurent Blanc pointed to Xabi Alonso's early goal as the key moment in his side's 2-0 loss to Spain in the Euro 2012 quarterfinals, but stood by his tactics.

Blanc unexpectedly introduced a fresh formula against Spain at Donetsk's Donbass Arena on Saturday, with a five-man midfield deployed in a bid to stifle the reigning world and European champion.

Mathieu Debuchy lined up ahead of fellow rightback Anthony Reveillere in an unfamiliar right-wing role, as Blanc sought to nullify the influence of Jordi Alba and Andres Iniesta on the Spanish left.