Following a dull draw against Denmark (0-0), the French team, known as Les Bleus, still secured the first place in their group. This result will allow them to face Argentina, the modest second of their group.
It’s a starting eleven featuring six changes compared to the last match, taking the field at Luzhniki Stadium. Thus, starting are: Mandanda, Kimpembe, Sidibé, Nzonzi, Lemar, and Dembélé. Benjamin Mendy and Nabil Fekir will come on during the game.
Despite a ball possession of 68% (see the slideshow), the French team encountered very well-organized Danes, capable of troubling the defense with their speed: Martin Braithwaite thus infiltrated the French box as early as the 4th minute. Christian Eriksen was then thwarted by an outing from Steve Mandanda following a tense cross from Andreas Cornelius.
Didier Deschamps’ players created their best chances with shots from Olivier Giroud (15th) and Antoine Griezmann, at the conclusion of a beautiful collective move (38th). In the second half, Nabil Fekir, who came on for Antoine Griezmann (69th), attempted two shots. His first shot hit the side netting (69th), and the second forced a beautiful save from Schmeichel (82nd).
After two victories against Australia (2-1) and then Peru (1-0), the French team advances past the group stage with 7 points. Les Bleus now have four days of rest before their round of 16 match, scheduled for Saturday, June 30 (4 PM) in Kazan against the runner-up of Group D. The lucky chosen team is Argentina, which, thanks to a surge of pride combined with Iceland’s defeat, finished second in its group.
As a matter of pride, Peru defeated Australia (2-0) and took the third place in Group C. Denmark will face Croatia.
DIDIER DESCHAMPS’ REACTION
“The result suits both teams, although we had the chances to win. Denmark did what was necessary by adding more density. The objective was to secure first place. Now we must recover well before our round of 16 match on Saturday. This first stage has been complicated. Facing dense blocks is never easy. Changes affect cohesion, but it’s good that all players can feel involved.”
