Friday, July 04, 2014

Les Bleus to start with Griezmann over Giroud

After watching the Nigeria v France match it was clear that Deschamps needed to roll out a formation with a natural left winger on the pitch. This is even more important against Die Mannschaft. With that in mind DD rolls out his 4-3-3 with Griezmann on the left and Benzema in the center.

Lloris - Evra, Sakho, Varane, Debuchy - Cabaye, Matuidi, Pogba - Griezmann, Benzema, Valbuena

 Sakho finds his way back into the starting line up along side Varane. With a true left winger in place it should allow the left back - Evra to be more active on the offensive end of the game. Unlike against Nigeria, I expect to see the former Manchester United left back to push higher on the pitch. Why? With Griezmann, assume that the left winger will be more responsible with his defensive duties unlike Benzema who is too much of a center forward - doesn't run back!

Some interesting line up changes for Low as well. Lahm is back at right back, which is really where he should be. Klose is in at the top of the formation, a real center forward with Muller and Ozil as the wide players. This seems like the best formation for the collection of players on Low's roster. Wonder why it has taken this long to roll it out.
Why did it take this long to slot at right back?

To be blunt, I did not like France's chances before, now that I see what Low has rolled out I like them even less. With Klose up front, the Mannschaft has a natural and dangerous high striker that will keep Sakho and Varane occupied. What scares me with Sakho is that as talented as he is, he is also susceptible to serious mental lapses where he lunges in for a rash challenge. With someone like Klose roaming the penalty box...I fear we might see one from Sakho when Klose ghosts behind the French defense. I also think that Lahn as right back makes the most sense, especially when Low can put Khedira and Schweiny in the mid-field, making that stronger for Germany. France will have to give a herculean effort today and make no mistakes if they hope to have a chance at pulling off the upset.

Alas I have to go with my head again - Germany will win this game.

RFA 2 - France 0

Allez les bleus!!

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