Didier Deschamps is not expected to change his plans drastically. After France’s convincing 3-0 win over Sweden in the World Cup round of 16, the Bleus coach appears ready to rely on the same core to face Paraguay.
The match is scheduled for this Saturday night at 11 p.m., with a place in the quarter-finals at stake. Barring a late surprise, France should start with a line-up very close to the one that impressed in the previous round. Deschamps wants to focus on continuity, stability and automatisms.
Barcola keeps the edge over Doué on the left wing
Good news for PSG: several Paris players are expected to play a major role again. Bradley Barcola is tipped to start on the left side of the attack, alongside Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé. Désiré Doué, also a PSG player, is expected to begin on the bench despite his potential and his eye-catching appearances as a substitute.
Didier Deschamps’ choice on the left wing is becoming clearer. Bradley Barcola seems to have moved ahead during this World Cup. His pace, ability to take players on and connection with Kylian Mbappé are clearly influencing the French staff’s decisions. Behind him, Lucas Digne is also expected to keep his place at left-back ahead of Théo Hernandez, another strong call from the coach, who is currently prioritising balance and solidity.
In midfield, however, France must deal with a major absence. According to RMC, Aurélien Tchouaméni will not be available against Paraguay after feeling discomfort in his thigh during training on Friday. He is expected to be out for around four days, with a possible return in the quarter-finals if France qualify. In that context, Manu Koné should partner Adrien Rabiot in midfield. Up front, the trio of Dembélé, Olise and Barcola will be tasked with supplying Kylian Mbappé, the France captain and still the team’s biggest attacking threat.
France’s probable line-up against Paraguay: Maignan – Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne – Koné, Rabiot – Dembélé, Olise, Barcola – Mbappé.
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