Karim Benzema has admitted that France have got the worst possible draw in the World Cup play-offs.

Les Bleus will take on the Republic of Ireland in November with the two teams battling it out over two legs for a place in South Africa, after the sides were drawn out of the hat to face each other on Monday.

With France seeded for the draw, they could have been pitted against either Ukraine, Slovenia or Bosnia-Herzegovina, but they were handed a tie against the highest-ranked second seeds.

Real Madrid forward Benzema, who has 27 caps for France, is relishing the test that the Republic will bring, and is desperate for his team to reach the tournament next year.

"It is a very difficult draw, two big games await us for a place in the World Cup 2010 in South Africa," he said.

"It is very exciting and a game you are born to play in - it will be a battle and I want to be part of that.

"In Croke Park, Ireland will count on their fantastic fans to try and have the advantage but we will be ready - we all want to be part of the biggest football event of the world."