2018 FIFA World Cup – France vs Peru Preview
AT A GLANCE
When? Thursday 21st June, 16:00
Where? Central Stadium
What channel is it on? ITV1
Where can I stream the match? The match can be streamed online via ITV Player
Are tickets still available? https://www.ticketbisevents.com/en/group-c-france-australia-peru-denmark-tickets/ca5912
THE TEAM NEWS
FRANCE
- France edged past Australia in their opening match largely thanks to a penalty and a fortunate deflected winner to start their tournament, and Deschamps will be demanding a much-improved display here and he may make one or two changes in both attack and defence for this one
- Sidibe is recovered from his knock and could replace Pavard while Giroud could also come into the attack to offer a different option there as they looked pretty one dimensional offensively in the first game.
- Changing the full-backs and giving Mendy a start could also boost them offensively, while Fekir or Thauvin could also see some playing time.
Predicted line-up (4-3-3):
Lloris
Sidibe, Varane, Umtiti, Hernandez
Kante, Pogba, Tolisso
Griezmann, Giroud, Mbappe
Unavailable: None
Doubtful: None
PERU
- Peru were left to rue a first half missed penalty against Denmark and they ended up losing a close fought match in disappointing fashion, and they simply must get something out of this game now.
- They may decide to give veteran skipper Guerrero a start here at the expense of Flores in an attempt to inspire the team for this key match as he is a big influence within the camp although he is past his best now.
- It is unlikely Gareca will make wholesale changes to the team but tactically they will sit back more and try to hit France on the counter, but this really is a tough assignment for the team.
Predicted line-up (4-2-3-1):
Gallese
Advincula, Ramos, Rodriguez, Trauco
Yotun, Tapia
Carrillo, Cueva, Flores
Farfan
Unavailable: None
Doubtful: None
THE PREDICTION
Peru's lengthy unbeaten record came to an end against Denmark but they will have been disappointed to lose after missing a penalty. France were far from inspiring against Australia, but will look to make another step up in performance here though it could be another low scoring affair. Peru’s strength is their organisation and work rate, which may work to their advantage here, and they may deem a point as sufficient if Denmark fail to beat Australia in the match before their game. If they have to come out and go for the win, that could spell trouble.
