World Cup PHOTOS: Five-star France crush sloppy Swiss

France crushed Switzerland 5-2 in the World Cup Group E match in Salvador on Friday to move closer to knockout phase four years after one of their darkest days.

France, who beat Honduras 3-0 in their opening game, top the standings with six points and will advance if Ecuador and Honduras draw later.

France blasted two goals within 66 seconds as Olivier Giroud headed them into the lead after 17 minutes and Blaise Matuidi added a second almost straight from the restart.

"That was a very good match, we did a lot of things right," France coach Didier Deschamps said in a television interview.

"Five goals against a strong Swiss team, we've got six points, that's ideal."

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In the 31st minutes, Swiss defender Johan Djourou was harshly adjudged to have fouled France striker Benzema which resulted in a penalty. However, Swiss goalkeer Diego Benaglio came up with a fine save to deny the French.

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Giroud then played his part to increase France's goal count as he ran deep from his own half on a swift-counter attack and set up Mathieu Valbuena for the third as France took a commanding 3-0 lead at halftime.

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Paul Pogba's exquisite pass with the outside of his boot allowed Benzema to turn and score the fourth through the goalkeeper's legs.

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Benzema then turned provider by putting Moussa Sissoko in space and the midfielder smashed his shot into the left-hand corner with 17 minutes remaining for France's fifth.

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Substitute Blerim Dzemaili hammered home a low free nine minutes from time and a volley from Granit Xhaka in the 87th minute gave the Swiss a second late consolation goal.

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