France take on Ecuador in Group E’s showdown at the Maracana after a sublime 5-2 win over Switzerland in their previous encounter which gave Didier Deschamps’ side got two consecutive wins in as many games. The South American side sit second in the group on goal difference, but they must match Switzerland’s result against Honduras to qualify as the runners up from the group stages for a spot in the last sixteen. The Les Blues however, look in commanding form and would like to keep their perfect record intact but will La Tri’s gate crash their party in Sambaland. So what will be France’s strongest lineup against Ecuador? We here at Soccersouls have the answer for our readers.
Goalkeeper:
Much has been talked about France being ruthless up front in two games and just conceded two goals so far. Ecuador however, have been a compact side with a 4-4-2 formation with manager Reinaldo Rueda focusing on the wide wingers with his limited options in his squad. With two strikers up front, Hugo Lloris is however expected to be busy under the sticks. The Tottenham shot stopper has had a decent campaign and should be looking to have yet another good game before the knock out stages.
Defenders:
Manchester United’s Patrice Evra should be starting in the left back slot while Mathieu Decuchy should man the right back role for his national side. Both the full backs will have to be careful from the pressure of Ecuador’s wingers who will stay as wide as possible to enable the full backs to overlap for providing crosses into the penalty box. The La Tri would look to expose Evra’s lack of pace which might leave the back line exposed. Deschamps however, would look to give a rest to Mamadou Sakho as he suffered a thigh injury and was withdrawn during the second half against the Swiss. Raphael Varane however, should partner Arsenal’s Laurent Koscielny at the back.
Midfield:
With Juevntus young sensation Paul Pogba set to hold fort in midfield, the former Manchester United player will have able support in PSG’s Blaise Matuidi who have been a quite operator, acting as a screen in front of the defense. The attacking triumvirate of Mathieu Valbuena, Yohan Cabaye and Antoine Griezmann acting as the chief creative spark just behind the front man who will lead the attack. Valbuena and Griezmann have been simply sensational, looking to cut inside, allowing the full backs to overlap up front to deliver crosses in the penalty box.
Strike force:
Karim Benzema looks in red hot form in the tournament and Arsenal man Olivier Giroud has lived up to him. Deschamps might opt to rest Benzema in favour of Giroud while yet another Arsenal target Loic Remy itching to get himself into the action.
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