Currently the Scots top Group B on goal difference from the French, but the World Cup finalists are the overwhelming favourites to be in pole position by the end of the 90 minutes.

Already Raymond Domenech's side have secured a 3-1 revenge victory over world champions Italy at the Stade de France, after their opening 3-0 win against Georgia.

And Smith says the manner of these two victories have shown France are not suffering any World Cup hangover and are in better shape now than they were in Germany.

"The popular perception is that after the World Cup teams are not quite as good but I think France are proving that wrong," said Smith.

"They have set a foundation in winning their first two games in this tournament. They were tremendous results and the performances they gave in both games were outstanding.

"France have good players all over the pitch and there is a togetherness allied to a level of ability. They are a better side now than when they got to the World Cup Final."

The last time the two teams met in Paris in 2002 Scotland, managed by German coach Berti Vogts, were thrashed 5-0.

However, since Smith took over in December 2004 the Scots have improved dramatically and there is a growing belief they can cause a shock against France and in Ukraine the following Wednesday.

"You always set out to win matches so I don't like to set a specific target," said Smith. "Our objective would be to do as well as we can and if it leads to us winning then fine.

"But it would depend on how the games go. Maybe at the end of the matches two points would be a decent return but it may be that we play well enough to get more."

Scotland will be without first choice striker Kenny Miller of Celtic, who is suspended for the game, and West Bromich Albion midfielder Nigel Quashie is out with an ankle injury.

Top goalscorer James McFadden has not played since picking up a hamstring injury against Lithuania but played in a reserve game for Everton on Tuesday and could feature as could his club teammate, defender David Weir, who has only made two substitute appearances for the Goodison side this season.

Though France are expected to win Saturday's match and to qualify from Group B alongside Italy, Domenech has warned his players against underestimating Scotland.

Indeed the French boss says they will provide a tougher test than the World Cup winners did last month.

Domenech said: "Please do not underestimate the importance of this match with Scotland.

"We've dealt with the Italy match and now we're into the crucial stages of the Euro 2008 qualifiers.

"Personally, I feel the trip to Scotland will be the first genuine match of the qualifying campaign. Scotland aren't top of the group with us by accident.

"They got there with two exceptionally good results. They have done enough to merit our respect and they will get that."

France have injury doubts.

Manchester United's Louis Saha is doubtful while Lyon's Sidney Govou has been ruled out with an ankle injury.

Arsenal defender William Gallas is also struggling.

Bolton Wanderers striker Nicolas Anelka could replace Govou while Lyon defender Sebastien Squillaci have been called up to provide cover.