Olivier Giroud was widely praised by the Italian press after his record breaking goal in France’s World Cup win over Poland.
The 36-year-old Milan striker became Les Bleus’ all-time top scorer after scoring his 52nd goal for the national team in their Round of 16 clash in Qatar, overtaking previous holder Thierry Henry. Giroud has now scored three goals at the World Cup and is playing a key role for his country following the injury to Karim Benzema.
La Gazzetta dello Sport had high praise for Giroud, drawing attention to his importance on the pitch and his record breaking goal against Poland, saying: “ruler of goals in the history of the French national team with 52 joys.”
Corriere dello Sport echoed these sentiments and even suggested that Giroud was irreplaceable in Didier Deschamps’ squad, noting “France have discovered that they perhaps cannot do without this striker.”
Tuttosport drew attention to Giroud’s performance on the pitch against Poland, praising his work and saying: “He juggles as usual and above all unlocks the result in his own way, as a true centre forward.”
Milan have been thoroughly impressed with Giroud’s work and are working on tying him down to a new contract.
Giroud’s ratings in the Italian newspapers:
Gazzetta dello Sport: 7.5
Tuttosport: 7.5
Corriere dello Sport: 6.5