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2018 FIFA World Cup reaches its business end as the quarterfinal action will get underway very shortly in Russia. France will take on Uruguay, and it promises to be yet another mouth-watering encounter between these two proud footballing nations.
Both these teams are in a fantastic form and played exceedingly well in the tournament so far. While Uruguay has won all of their matches, Didier Deschamps side has lit up the World Cup, with their outstanding display of attacking skills in the pre-quarterfinals against Argentina. Some of the biggest stars of world football will face-off against each other in this crucial match. Let’s focus on three important duels that would make this game even more fascinating to watch.
#Kylian Mbappe and Godin
We have seen what Mbbape did in the last game, he literally ran through Argentina's defence. The 19-year-old is one of the brightest talents of the world football. On his day, he can turn any game on its head. He has tremendous speed with the ball and can run past any defence at will. Mbappe scored twice against Argentina. He has become the first teenager, since Pele in 1958 final, to hit a brace in football’s mega event. France will be hoping that he would replicate the same against Uruguay. But his job won't be easy against the Oscar Tabarez side.
Uruguay has conceded only one goal in the competition so far. And on Friday, Mbappe will face a tough challenge from Uruguay’s most experienced defender Diego Godin. The Atletico Madrid Star is perhaps the most consistent performer in defence for Uruguay. He is the pillar of strength for his side without any doubt. Godin has all the attributes of a world-class central defender. He is strong on the tackle, effective in the air, and has terrific anticipation to keep his team out of trouble in the defensive position. He has to play his best game against France and particularly against the certain Mbappe. This would be a riveting battle to watch between these two amazing players.
#Luis Suarez and Kante
Suarez is the most influential and perhaps the best player in this Uruguay’s side. He is a prolific goal scorer and has fantastic technical abilities. He has the ability to evade defenders with his quick speed that allows him to attack from the outside of the penalty area. Suarez also creates scoring opportunities for his team-mates. He has scored 7 World Cup goals for Uruguay, next only to Oscar Miguez. He is a big match player, will be itching to do well against France. But he will be up against the Frenchman Kante.
Chelsea’s star Kante is a key player for France in the defensive midfield position. He is strong, destructive and can unsettle any opposition on his day. He has the ability to run tirelessly right throughout the 90 minutes of a match. He has known for his ball-winning abilities in the midfield. We saw that aspect of his game against Argentina. He created lots pressure on the Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, and never let him play freely throughout the game. Kante will look to do the same on Friday and restrict Suarez from creating any positive impact in the match. Both of these players will look to outsmart each other in the quarter-final.
#Paul Pogba and Jose Gimenez
Pogba is one of the best-attacking midfielders in the world at the moment. Pogba is known for his stamina, as well as his powerful and accurate striking ability from distance. He is hard working and has a very sound technic. He has terrific control over the ball as well. He is a key player in this French side without a doubt.
On the other hand, Gimenez is a tough man to crack in Uruguay's defence. Gimenez and Godin both play for the same club, Atletico Madrid. They have a great understanding between them. Gimenez has a great sense of the game. He is particularly good in the air and has a terrific heading ability. It won't be easy against Pogba. This will be another intriguing battle to watch out for.
