France Football Team Prepares for Euro with Assessment Matches Against Luxembourg and Canada
The French national football team recently showcased their prowess in two preparation matches ahead of their much-anticipated European Championship campaign. Speaking after the matches, the special envoy to Bordeaux highlighted the successful completion of their ten-day preparation period, which saw players overcoming minor physical challenges to deliver strong performances. While the match against Luxembourg ended in a 3-0 victory, the encounter with Canada presented more adversity, helping the team gear up for their first Euro opponent, Austria.
Coach Didier Deschamps commented on the fitness levels of players, noting differences in physical readiness. Both Adrien Rabiot and Aurélien Tchouaméni were sidelined due to fitness concerns, while star player Kylian Mbappé started on the bench due to a hematoma. Olivier Giroud took on the captain's armband, with the group's collective support, a testament to the team's unity.
The tactical positioning of Antoine Griezmann was also under scrutiny. Deschamps acknowledged that Griezmann's higher positioning at times made him less available in the construction zone but stressed the need for adjustments. William Saliba displayed commendable solidity in defense, filling in seamlessly where needed, especially given Ibrahima Konaté's recent limited playtime.
In their match against Canada, Deschamps suggested maintaining the same defensive lineup used against Luxembourg. This approach underscores the importance of consistency and player familiarity, with the defense lineup expected to include Jules Koundé, Théo Hernandez, Ibrahima Konaté, and Dayot Upamecano. Despite recently recovering from nasopharyngitis, Ousmane Dembélé is likely to start along with Marcus Thuram and Giroud upfront.
N'Golo Kanté's performance has also been a topic of discussion, with Deschamps affirming that Kanté remains at the top of his game. The midfield as a whole is brimming with talent, further strengthened by the inclusion of Eduardo Camavinga. With supporters' unwavering backing, including over 11,000 French fans at the first three Euro matches, the atmosphere is set to be electric, urging the players to deliver their best performances.
Deschamps’s analysis of their initial Euro opponent, Austria, emphasized the team’s quality and intensity. Preparing the French squad to face such a well-equipped opponent remains a priority. With careful observation and knowledge of Austria's strengths, Deschamps is keen on ensuring his team is ready for the challenge.
- The probable lineup for the France squad against Canada is expected to include: Maignan in goal, Koundé, Konaté, Upamecano, and Hernandez in defense. The midfield duo would be Kanté and Camavinga, with Griezmann taking a central role. Dembélé, Giroud, and Thuram would complete the attacking trio. Mbappé's participation remains uncertain depending on his fitness.
- Deschamps’ decision not to use Rabiot and Tchouaméni further highlights his focus on player health and readiness, essential for the rigorous tournament ahead. Despite the short preparation time, the team aims to be in peak condition for the upcoming challenges.
