Philippe Mexes Scores First Goal For France, France Up 1-0 Over Luxembourg

Philippe Mexès has scored his first goal for his country, in the 28th minute of what has been a very dull affair between France and Luxembourg. The visitors, who earned their sole point thus far in Euro 2012 qualification in a 0-0 draw with Belarus, clearly arrived hoping to simply draw against France, who lead Group D with nine points. The Luxembourgers made a mistake, however, when Florent Malouda was fouled just outside the area. Samir Nasri, playing the role of sexy French captain today, stepped up to take the free kick, which curved over the wall toward the far post. Mexès was there to meet it, sending his header past a scrambling Jonathan Joubert and into the net.

Luxembourg, who have qualified for the European Championships just one time, back in 1964, have likely dug themselves into enough of a hole that there's no way that 2012 will be their year. They may have been bolstered by their 2-1 win over Slovakia, but unfortunately for the Red Lions, no points are awarded for wins in friendlies.