Coach Raymond Domenech admitted that France need a "miracle" if they are to progress to the second round of the 2010 World Cup following their 2-0 defeat to Mexico on Thursday.

France, the 2006 runners-up, were strongly criticised after a poor showing in their opener as they drew 0-0 with Uruguay, and they were unable to improve against Mexico as they went down to a strike from substitute Javier Hernandez in the 64th minute and a 79th-minute penalty from veteran Cuauhtemoc Blanco.

With Mexico and Uruguay both on four points and France and South Africa on one, a draw between the group leaders in their final game would ensure they go through and see France fall at the first hurdle.

"We need a miracle now," Domenech said. "We have to be strong and at least play for our honour. At least we must show something in the last match. When we are forced to rely on others, there's nothing to say."

"I'm lost for words. It's a real disappointment for those who believed in us. We did try but there was always something that didn't work," he said.

Winger Florent Malouda said: "It's shameful to lose like that. We can't leave a tournament without winning a match."