France's first ever international against Nigeria ended in disappointment as they slipped to defeat in their friendly in St Etienne. Club Brugge striker Joseph Akpala scored the only goal of the game after 32 minutes and France could not find a leveller, despite Loic Remy hitting the bar two minutes from time. The result will have done little for the popularity of coach Raymond Domenech, who many thought was lucky to hold onto his job after their dismal showing at Euro 2008.