French team, huge concern before the World Cup
Despite its success against Northern Ireland (3-1), the French team was not completely reassured.
The Blues are worrying, two days before the World Cup. Despite the victory against Northern Ireland (3-1) on Monday, driven by a hat-trick from Michael Olise, certain flaws still stood out. Particularly in defense, where several players raised questions.
On RMCin theAfter FootFlorent Gautreau did not hide his concerns after the performance of Didier Deschamps’ men. “In this match, there was not much in front and it went very easily in this French defense”he estimated. The journalist particularly points out the corridors: “There are things failing on the sides. Koundé had a very average start to the match, Théo Hernandez I don’t have confidence. I am not reassured. »
The figures do not encourage optimism either. Since their success against Azerbaijan (3-1) on November 16, the Blues have conceded at least one goal in each of their last five matches, their longest such streak since the end of 2022.
Dembélé, a headache for Deschamps?
Beyond the defensive problems, the offensive animation also fueled the debate. Aligned in the axis behind the attack, Ousmane Dembélé did not completely convince. “The team this (Monday) evening asks questions, they ask Deschamps”continued Gautreau. “It’s a real headache. Dembélé, apart from this false 9 position, you can’t have it good. »
The consultant also pointed out the midfielder’s difficulties: “The loss of ball (on the Northern Ireland goal) still comes from the middle. There is no first curtain. »
Before concluding with a worrying observation: “I’m not saying they’re not good individually, from time to time. Even on the left, with Digne, against a big team which will move up a bit… My concern is mainly collectively, especially with the two in the middle who are alone. »
