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To label France as underdogs is probably a huge mistake this World Cup in Brazil. In fact, France might actually have a shot at winning the cup, and if they do, it isn’t as surprising as most people think. Agreed, they definitely suffered a huge loss when their star player, Franck Ribery, pulled out of the squad after suffering a lower back injury. Yet, there is so much more talent in the France squad and the 1998 World Cup winners have everything to gain this time around.
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The reputation of Les Bleus has been tarnished after the previous World Cup in South Africa, having not only failed to qualify out of the group stages, but placing last after a goalless draw with Uruguay and a loss to both South Africa and Mexico. This was a result of major controversies in the dressing room, with players unhappy with their manager, Raymond Domenech, and revolting by failing to train before the South Africa game.
After this disastrous campaign, many France fans had lost faith in their team’s abilities. However, French football doesn’t seem to have the same problems this time around, with present coach Didier Deschamps bringing a much higher level of unity and solidity in his team.
Deschamps has made it clear that he is a better disciplinarian, already having kicked Samir Nasri out of the 23-man squad because he was a troublemaker. “I built the best squad. I did not pick the 23 best French players.” said Deschamps, who seems hopeful that France will regain its pride this time around. And if his words aren’t enough to raise the hopes of French supporters, their 8-0 win against Jamaica showed them that France isn’t going to be a laughing stock in Brazil.
Benzema- Giroud- Valbuena
Deschamps knows these 3 attacking players in his 4-3-3 formation will be the key men to bring France glory this summer. Karim Benzema is at his peak at the age of 26. He had probably his best season for Real Madrid this year, winning the coveted EUFA Champions League title for them. Although he will most likely be playing on the right wing of the attack, as opposed to the central striker role he plays with Real Madrid, he has proved to be just as effective. Olivier Giroud, the Arsenal striker, will be looking forward to playing in the center and Mathieu Valbuena on the left.
This triple threat will be a definite struggle for any team’s defense to contain, and is likely to be highly effective. Deschamps also has the privilege of using ‘super sub’ Antoine Griezmann, who scored two goals against Jamaica. The 22 year old World Cup debutant will be a good replacement on the left, with his quick acceleration and dribbling talent will provide a significant threat.
However, no one can really say how France’s defense will pan out. While Tottenham Hotspurs goalkeeper and French captain Hugo Lloris has proved he won’t be easily beaten in goal, his defense line is far from solid. In the center of defense, Mamadou Sakho and Raphael Varane will be expected to play, while Laurent Koscielny will wait on the bench. The young center backs are 24 and 21 years respectively, having a mere 25 caps between them.
While both Varane and Sahko have proved to be tough and effective, their inexperience not only as individual players, but as partners, might prove to be a problem at the World Cup stage. Patrice Evra, the Manchester United left back, will be the most experienced in defense but he has had a disastrous club season and he is far from his peak. Mathieu Debuchy will be expected to play on the right side of defense instead of Sagna, but the Newcastle player is not the most reliable and consistent of performers.
And thus, France’s midfield will be the decisive factor. Deschamps has a myriad of permutations and combinations to slot in the three key men who will best solidify his team. This midfield will need to provide help in attack, but more importantly be a support for the weaker defense line. Most probably, Paul Pogba, Cabaye and Matuidi will be starting and they will be a strong force. Pogba, Juventus’ wonder kid has an acute sight for scoring top notch goals, at the same time fearless and tough on defence.
Matuidi and Cabaye are a much more experienced duo, who play together for Paris St. Germain and therefore will be playing together in a familiar partnership. The duo have the ability to both play defensive roles as well as score goals when their team needs them.
With this squad, and an equally strong bench, France are not going to be making fools of themselves again. Their only concern will be in their defence, and Deschamps will be looking to fortify the back line with the aid of his midfield. Yet, Deschamps has the dilemma of choosing between Giroud and Griezmann, Varane and Koscielny, Debuchy and Sagna. Only time will tell, how effective his choices will turn out to be.
But one thing for sure, France is determined not to allow their experience in South Africa to repeat and they know this is their chance to regain the support of their fans. They have all to win for, all the talent to do so, and they will not leave without a fight.
