France vs Australia – Will France win there first game to start the World Cup right?
An injury-hit France side take their first steps in a bid to retain their title tomorrow, taking on Australia at the Al Janoub Stadium at 7.00pm (UK time).
Four years ago, France beat Australia 2-1 on their way to claim a second World Cup thanks to an Antoine Griezmann penalty and Aziz Behich own goal.
The defending champions have a strong squad but history is not on their side as they aim to become just the third team after Brazil and Italy to win back-to-back World Cups. France are third favourites to lift the trophy, and should breeze through the group stages.
Despite the huge loss of Karim Benzema to an ankle injury sustained in training, France have a multitude of players who are more than capable of replacing the Ballon D’Or winner. Kylian Mbappe and Olivier Giroud should have all the qualities needed to lead the French line.
In Australian team news, the 29 year old winger Martin Boyle, who is another key figure for the team, will miss the World Cup due to a knee injury that he picked up last month.
A key man for Australia will be Eintracht Frankfurt attacking midfielder Ajdin Hrustic, who played a key role in the German side’s Europa League winning campaign last season. The 26-year-old could be the spark that the Aussie’s need to cause an upset.
It has been a great achievement for Australia to qualify for their fifth consecutive World Cup but they had to do it the hard way, going through two playoff rounds.
The Socceroos will be hoping to match or better their round of 16 finish in 2006 but the odds will be massively against them.
Australia have suffered three group stage exits since then and have won just one of their last nine games at the tournament.
France are the heavy favourites to win this match but you never know what surprises the Socceroos will spring.
