France and Honduras angry for anthem not played before game

Player from France and Honduras have complained after their respective national anthems were not played prior to their Group E clash in Porto Alegre last night.

The PA system at the Beria Rio stadium did not live up to its job before the encounter, which France won comfortably by three goals to nil.

But a major talking point was the lack of opportunity for the teams to sing their patriotic ditties, and Honduras midfielder Roger Espinoza said after the game: "The technology did not work. Many are playing at a World Cup for the first time."

"And to not sing the national anthem is to not feel this debut. Even in my neighbourhood in Honduras we sing the hymn."

France captain Hugo Lloris was less scathing, adding: "It was a problem, it can happen, but it was disappointing. Because when you play a game in the World Cup, it is important to hear the anthem. But the players and referee were not involved in this."

Organisers at the Beira Rio will be hoping to solve the problem before the stadium hosts its next game on Wednesday between Australia and the Netherlands.