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Benjamin Mendy (France)
The most expensive full back in the world hasn’t had too much of an opportunity so far in this tournament, but he is an excellent defender. Lucas Hernandez hasn’t particularly impressed in the two games he has played, so don’t be surprised if he is left out when it comes to the knockout rounds. Mendy does seem to be returning to full fitness after recovering from a serious injury he picked up early in the season.
N’Golo Kante (France)
There are few players in the world who are as important to their team as N’Golo Kante. In a team with so many talented attacking players, for the French to have a player like Kante shielding the back four is crucial. Other than the Chelsea man and Steven N’Zonzi, who failed to impress in his only group game against Denmark, France have no other defensive minded midfielders in their squad. He is probably among the first names on the teamsheet, and will be hoping to continue his excellent form to take them all the way to Moscow for the final.
