France (Les Bleus) in Brazil……..
Since they played as host in the 1998, France has consecutively qualified for the Fifa World Cup competition.The inclusion of Spain in their UEFA qualification group, denied Les Bleus from getting into the 2014 Fifa World Cup through a direct qualification.
They suffered their only loss to Spain, and that was the difference between the two teams. With a 5-2-1 (W-D-L) record in their qualification group, France had to beat Ukraine in a thrilling two-legged game, that called for France to erase a 2-0 loss away with a 3-0 win at home.
The Venom
Real Madrid’s No.9 will also be the French’s No. 9. Karim Benzema will be leading the attack to this French side.
Benzema
He has proven in recent years to be the prime striker for the French national team. His precision and strength in front of the the goal is an attribute that will associated with any world-class striker. To be an offensive player on a Real Madrid team is enough resume for any player.
Olivier Giroud is another forward to watch out for. He has proven his worth with Arsenal F.C. this season. He is a goalkeeper’s foe, when he comes off the bench.
The Control and Support
This an area of strength for the French team.
Frank Ribery will be supporting the forwards from the midfield area. Ribery is on a great run with the German giants, Bayern Munich. A lot will be expected from this winger.
Ribery in action for Bayern Munich
Samir Nasri is another impacting talent in the French midfield. His creativity in the midfield will be depended on to open up defending teams. Other players expected to make their mark on the world stage will be Paul Pogba, Blaise Matuidi, Yohan Cabaye, Mathieu Valbuena and Yoann Gourcuff.
The Bouncers
Les Bleus will be counting on the leadership of Patrice Evra in the back line. His work ethic will be an example the team will follow. Laurent Koscielny, Bacary Sagna, Mamadou Sakho and Christophe Jallet are other prominent defensive names to jot down.
So what does it look like for France?
The last four Fifa World Cups, they either made it to the finals or flopped completely. The difference has been Zinedine Zidane.
Can the team make it pass the group stage without Zinedine Zidane? Recent records says ‘No’.
They are the only team in their World Cup group to have won the competition. They are one of the favorites to get out of Group E, and might even be a favorite to win the competition. France possess the right players to go for the World Cup trophy.
But this is futbol, there will be some drama, suspense and surprises. And that is why we will have to be watching to see if France will make their advantage count.
