2018 FIFA World Cup – Uruguay vs France Preview
AT A GLANCE
When? Friday 6th July, 15:00
Where? Nizhny Novgorod Stadium
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
URUGUAY
- Uruguay managed to overcome Portugal to win their fourth consecutive game in the tournament despite losing their clean sheet record
- They have a major injury concern over forward Cavani who is struggling with a strain but they will give him as long as possible to recover
- Stuani or Rodriguez will replace him but it would be a massive blow, and that will likely be the only change to their starting eleven
Predicted line-up (4-4-2):
Muslera
Caceres, Godin, Gimenez, Laxalt
Nandez, Torreira, Bentancur, Vecino
Cavani, Suarez
Unavailable: None
Doubtful: Cavani
FRANCE
- France produced their best display of the tournament in beating Argentina 4-2 in the Round of 16 and Mbappe especially hit the headlines
- They will have to do without Matuidi who is suspended so Deschamps is likely to go with N'Zonzi to add some height to the team
- While their front men shone against Argentina, their attack will not find it as easy against this incredibly tough Uruguayan defence
Predicted line-up (4-3-3):
Lloris
Pavard, Varane, Umtiti, Hernandez
Kante, Pogba, N'Zonzi
Mbappe, Giroud, Griezmann
Unavailable: Matuidi
Doubtful: None
THE PREDICTION
So much depends on the fitness of Cavani for Uruguay given his importance to the team. Either way, there will be no surprises with their game plan as they will look to keep it tight the entire time. France are marginally favoured after their last performance, but the play here is under 2.5 goals.
