Saturday’s mouthwatering World Cup quarterfinal between France and England pits superstar Kylian Mbappe against a forward unit brimming with youthful vigor.
Despite being separated by only 32 kilometres of ocean, the two European heavyweights have only met twice on the biggest stage since 1982.
France, who was in Russia in 2018 to become world champions for the second time, advanced to the round of 16 with two goals from Mbappe and one from Olivier Giroud.
After a shaky start, England turned on the style for a comfortable 3-0 victory over the African champions Senegal.
Mbappe, 23, is the tournament’s leading scorer with five goals in just four appearances, while Giroud’s goal against Poland elevated him to France’s all-time leading scorer.
France vs. England
Al-Bayt Stadium is located in a desert environment, and questions regarding how England will contain the lethal Mbappe have dominated the buildup to the match.
On Saturday, England’s quick right-back Kyle Walker will likely tasked with containing Mbappe, but he wants to dispel the notion that he is the only threat.
The Manchester City defender stated, “I know he’s a great player, but we’re not playing tennis; this is a team sport.”
“We all know that he is a great player, which is why every question is about him. However, let’s not forget (Olivier) Giroud, who has scored numerous (goals), and (Ousmane) Dembele, who is, in my opinion, just as good on the opposite wing.”
Southgate’s risk
Southgate is in a difficult situation. Does he adhere or turn? Does he unleash his young attackers or enhance his defensive options?
They criticized the England coach for a winless streak in the lead-up to the World Cup. Despite reaching the final of Euro 2020 and the semi-finals in 2018 in 2019.
With 12 goals in four games, England is tie for the most goals score in Qatar as the quarterfinals approach.
Their best player has been the roving teen Jude Bellingham. Whose partnership is impressive with Declan Rice, a more defensive player.
Harry Maguire, the central defender for England, is susceptible to speed, as is the case for France.
Southgate referred to the match as the “greatest challenge we could face.”
“They are world champions with an extraordinary depth of talent and exceptional players. Making them extremely difficult to play against and score against,” he said.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to test ourselves against the best. It’s a historic rivalry that has produced great games in the past.
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