France vs Paraguay: 4 Talking Points ahead of the World Cup

A late goal denied France a confidence-boosting win on home soil before the World Cup and while Les Bleus are favourites to top their group, there remains some causes for concern.

On at odds of 4/5 to top a group containing Switzerland, Honduras and Ecuador, the France national team remains one very much in the making. Here, Jack Beresford discusses four major talking points from the Paraguay game.

Antoine Griezmann may have played his way into starting for France – The left winger has enjoyed an impressive season in Spain with Real Sociedad and further cemented his place as France’s best young prospect with a fine cameo appearance as a substitute that included a goal on his weaker right foot. Coming on for Loic Remy, the 23-year-old could now start against Honduras.

Hugo Lloris could well be lacking confidence after Paraguay error – France should have had the game dead and buried going into the final few minutes but manager Didier Deschamps may still be more that a little concerned by the blunder Lloris made for the South American’s equaliser. The Tottenham keeper has endured a tough season at Spurs and appeared to be lacking confidence here.

France simply must take more of their chances in front of goal – Despite dominating in terms of shots and possession, it took a moment of individual magic from Griezmann for Les Bleus to find the net. France simply must be more ruthless – despite managing seven corners against Paraguay, Deschamps team could only muster seven shots on target with a further 12 wide of the goal.

Benzema looks to have ensured his starting spot without kicking a ball – Partly to blame for France’s failings in front of goal, Olivier Giroud was largely anonymous against Paraguay, in a display that could play into the hands of Karim Benzema. The Real Madrid man may have had his injury problems but with Giroud flopping in front of net, it would take a brave man not to look to his rival.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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