In a stark contrast to 4 years ago, France showing maturity under pressure at the World Cup

Aside from France's new-found panache in attack, it was the composure in the face of some ferocious tackling that really stood out in France's 3-0 World Cup win against Honduras.

Striker Karim Benzema took the acclaim after scoring twice and playing a decisive role in the other goal. But Sunday's Group E contest against a side reduced to 10 men just before halftime was really settled behind him as France's midfield and fullbacks kept calm in a hostile situation.

Four years ago, France's team could not even handle their nerves in training, let alone a match. Coach Didier Deschamps deserves a lot of credit for making sure there are cooler heads this time around.

With the exception of midfielder Paul Pogba, the French showed maturity to withstand some intense provocation.