Real Madrid and Spain legend Raul has been impressed by France's start to the World Cup, describing their form as "fearsome" after defeating Switzerland.
Didier Deschamps' side enjoyed a comprehensive 5-2 victory over the Swiss on Friday night and, after opening Group E with a 3-0 win against Honduras, a point against Ecuador will seal passage to the next round as group winners.
Raul, who scored 44 goals in 102 games for la Roja and played in three World Cups, was struck by France's performance against Switzerland and believes they are already playing ominously well.
"France showed fearsome form in demolishing Switzerland 5-2," the 36-year-old wrote in his column for the Times of India.
"France did almost everything that they wanted. Normally, one doesn't expect such a one-sided match between two European teams. But this was different.
"The French attacked in waves and the intensity didn't subside even after the outcome had become certain.
"Now Benzema has got three goals in two matches, which could easily have been five with some luck. He is eager to prove a point. It's true that France have not faced the best of teams, but their domination has been awesome.
"The best part about France has been that several of their players have looked in good touch."
Raul greatly enjoyed watching France's two displays in Brazil and, in stark contrast to les Bleus' disappointing showing in the previous World Cup in South Africa, he believes they are beginning to recapture the aura of champions.
"In 2010, France were out in the first round and there were many negative stories doing the rounds. The team was in complete disarray. Two former world champions have worked with the team since.
"Laurent Blanc took over from Raymond Domenech after the World Cup and left after taking the team to the quarter-finals of Euro 2012. Under the 1998 World Cup winning captain Didier Deschamps now, they are playing like champions once again."
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