Verdict: Both teams to score – yes
Best Odds: 23/20
Bookmaker: 888sport
Group C in the 2018 FIFA World Cup will be decided this next Tuesday, and there a few things clear concerning which teams will make it to the knockout stages. With France already qualified and Peru already out, Denmark and Australia will battle for the second position in the standings during the final matchday. With that in mind, Denmark will take on France looking to pull a major upset on their quest to reach the Round of 16. Will they come through against one of the top title contenders?
Denmark
The Danes have looked quite good during the first two matches of the Group Stage. Led by some stellar performances from Tottenham star Christian Eriksen, Denmark defeated Peru (1-0) in the tournament opener and even though they had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Australia the last time out, there is no question that they deserved better luck in that match. The scenario for Denmark is quite clear, as they have four points heading into this tie against the French side. A win would give them the top spot in Group C standings, and a draw would be enough to qualify in second place. A defeat would complicate them, but they could still reach the next round depending on what happens with Australia against Peru. But at least on paper, there is no question that Denmark are on a good position to reach the Round of 16. Will they manage to compete against France, arguably one of the best teams in the competition so far?
Team News
Denmark are almost at full strength ahead of this game. Manager Åge Hareide will play with his Best XI in this one knowing what’s at stake for the team.
William Kvist is the only absentee, as he won’t play this contest due to injury. He could feature in case Denmark makes it to the knockout stages, though.
France
France have absolutely nothing to play for this game, with the exception of securing the top spot in Group C. Didier Deschamps’ men defeated both Australia (2-1) and Peru (1-0) in their first two Group Stage matches and while they have had perfect runs so far, their performance has been less than encouraging: the win against Australia did not see France as an overwhelming, dominant side, while they also had to work harder than expect to get past a resilient Peruvian side. Could it be that France are now set to perform at their best without the pressure of having to win to avoid an early elimination? We do not know that for sure, but one thing is certain. France have, at least on paper, one of the most talented teams in the World Cup and were also one of the first teams to reach the knockout stages. They need to back that up with a proper performance and if they show they can be the contender many expect them to be, then the world should be in alert. Talent wise, few teams are better than France right now. This game against Denmark seems like the perfect chance to show what they can do.
Team News
France are at full strength ahead of this game. Djibril Sidibe is reportedly back in training, although Benjamin Pavard is slated to start at right-back for the third straight match. Based on reports, this will be a game-time decision.
Manager Didier Deschamps might rotate the side, though. Steve Mandanda, Pascal Kimpembe, Thomas Lemar and Steven N’Zonzi might start. Conversely, names such as Hugo Lloris, Kylian Mbappe and Samuel Umtiti will get rest looking towards the knockout stages.
Key Factors to Consider
- France and Denmark have met seven times from 2000 to date. The record shows Les Bleus have a clear edge with six wins and one draw over that span.
- In fact, none of the past 11 matches between these two sides have ended in a draw.
- France have scored at least two goals in eight of their past 10 matches. Conversely, Denmark has netted over 1.5 goals in only three of their past 10.
- Denmark’s struggles on the attacking end are real, though. The Danes only average 0.83 goals in their last six contests, but have netted in their previous two WC matches.
- France would claim the top spot with a win or a draw. Meanwhile, Denmark only need to win to clinch the first seed.
Conclusion
This is going to be a very open game. Both sides will play out to get a win and the top spot in Group C.
Expect this contest to be an attacking-minded one, so I reckon both sides will score at least once here.
Verdict: Both teams to score – yes
Best Odds: 23/20
Bookmaker: 888sport
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