This summer, France will host the 2016 European Championship and Didier Deschamps’ men may be the team to beat on home soil. While Brazil crumbled in front of their own supporters at the 2014 World Cup, France are more than capable of going all the way and lifting the trophy on July 10th.
Since winning the World Cup and European Championship back in 1998 and 2000 respectively, France have struggled to make an impact at major competitions. However, an improved performance in Brazil suggests that Deschamps’ “Golden Generation” could step up to the plate on home soil.
On the whole, France’s squad is incredibly young. Talented… but young. But despite their lack of experience, the French side have immense team spirit. It would be foolish to claim that France are destined for glory but after the horrific scenes in Paris back in November, they may just have that extra impetus to go on and win the competition.
Defensively, they are solid, reliable and organised – three traits needed to win a major international tournament. Hugo Lloris is one of the best shot stoppers in the business and plenty of punters will be visiting online bookmakers to place their bets due to France’s stability at the back. Click here before the kick-off to visit Betway’s website for all Euro 2016 betting markets and much more.
Raphael Varane hasn’t played much for Real Madrid this season but the French starlet may be about to play a key role for his nation. Deschamps is a big fan of Varane and his commanding presence at the heart of the France back four will provide added protection for Lloris. And with attacking full backs, such as Bacary Sagna and Patrice Evra, stability in the central areas will be vital.
Without a shadow of a doubt, France have the most talented group of midfielders in the competition. With Antoine Griezmann, Paul Pogba, Blaise Matuidi, Dimitri Payet and N’Golo Kante at his disposal, Deschamps will have a few tough decisions to make. While Pogba and Griezmann are almost dead certs to start, the other positions remain up for grabs.
As of April 6th, France are 7/2 with Betway to win the competition this summer – and it’s not difficult to see why they are one of the leading contenders for the crown with so much talent in the side. And Deschamps’ selection headache will only get worse as he attempts to select from a world class group of attacking players…
Anthony Martial, Alexandre Lacazette and Karim Benzema are all on the cusp of securing their places in the squad but the likes of Olivier Giroud and Loic Remy may end up missing out – especially if Deschamps opts for an extra attacking midfielder or two.
If France perform at their very best, they stand a great chance of lifting the trophy this summer in front of their passionate home supporters. The Stade de France is an imposing venue at the best of times and Deschamps’ men will be very difficult to beat if they manage to reach the showpiece event on July 10th. But for now, it’s all about impressing their manager as they look to make what could be a history-making French starting line-up.
