2018 FIFA World Cup – France vs Argentina Preview
AT A GLANCE
When? Saturday 30th June, 15:00
Where? Kazan Arena
What channel is it on? BBC
Where can I stream the match? BBC license holders can stream the match online via BBC iPlayer
Are tickets still available? https://www.ticketbisevents.com/en/football-world-cup-2018-tickets/ca2171?afl=694JWFTART&gclid=CjwKCAjw3cPYBRB7EiwAsrc-ubpt4g60RCE1cxEY1qD29AUk7XLBVGrSrMV_EvR_BqvkoCzBoUdigRoCvlEQAvD_BwE
THE TEAM NEWS
FRANCE
- France cantered into the Round of 16 with 7 points from their 3 games but their performances have not been close to what they are capable of.
- Deschamps is blessed to have a fully fit squad at his disposal and he will revert to his preferred line-up after rotating against Denmark.
- His main decisions are in attack as he has to decide on his trio where he has yet to really find the optimal blend amongst all the talent.
Predicted line-up (4-3-3):
Lloris
Pavard, Varane, Umtiti, Hernandez
Kante, Pogba, Matuidi
Mbappe, Griezmann, Dembele
Unavailable: None
Doubtful: None
ARGENTINA
- Argentina salvaged a difficult situation by beating Nigeria thanks to Rojo's goal and now they enter the knockout phase as underdogs.
- Sampaoli's tactics have been criticised throughout the tournament but there is every chance that he will name an unchanged team.
- Pavon or Salvio could potentially come in for Perez out wide, but otherwise Sampaoli will want to keep faith in his fragile team.
Predicted line-up (4-4-2):
Armani
Mercado, Otamendi, Rojo, Tagliafico
Perez, Mascherano, Banega, Di Maria
Messi, Higuain
Unavailable: None
Doubtful: None
THE PREDICTION
Neither of these teams have been convincing in the group stage but they should both raise their performance levels here. The edge goes to France however as they are the stronger side defensively and their attack should pick off this vulnerable Argentine defensive line.
