Euro 2016 - France are the favourites, but....

The clash between France and Iceland is kind of a mismatch tonight, but the way Iceland advanced into the quarterfinals by beating the top teams, you can’t take them lightly. The French have a well organized midfield and forward, but tonight, they will be vulnerable at defence: Holding midfielder N’Golo Kante will miss through suspension, along with Sevilla defender Adil Rami. Yohan Cabaye is widely tipped to replace Kante, while Samuel Umtiti is expected to deputise for Rami.

Umtiti’s inclusion means he will make his debut for Les Blues, included ahead of the unpredictable Eliaquim Mangala. Cabaye is also a more attack-minded player than Kante, and while his passing range from deep is no doubt better than Kante, do not expect the same protection offered to the back four.

Iceland will look to utilize this weak point, even though, it is expected, they might not get that much of the freedom to breach the French defence like they did against England. Didier Deschamp is well aware of such small teams’ ability to create upsets and their tactics – bringing the opposition players into their half and then go for the counterattack in the most electrifying manner.

Iceland doesn’t boast big names, but players like Gylfi Sigurdsson and  Aron Gunnarsson generate enough inspiration to drive the team forward. Hard work, passion, team unity and strong defence are their strength. The French should be careful about their defence and look to score more goals as early as possible and dent the spirit of the country of the sons.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar