The first round of games have come and gone in the World Cup, and a pivotal clash between France and Peru on Matchday 2 could be defining for either side.
Peru, who played some ravishing football at times against Denmark but to no avail, are desperate for something against France to keep their knockout hopes alive.
The French are part of a clan of pre-tournament favourites that failed to impress in the opening round. But they grabbed an all-important winner against Australia, leaving them a win away from progressing with ease.
Peru exhibited the sort of quality they need to trouble a side like France, however the gaping holes in their defence – not least in the build up to Denmark’s solitary goal – give them reason to worry.
France’s attack to shine this time?
Les Bleus have a sparkling forward triumvirate that, on paper, looks as potent as any in the World Cup.
Manager Didier Deschamps has attacking options to spare, but against Australia they never reached their peak. A contentious penalty and a bizarre own goal were the routes to France’s tally against the Socceroos.
Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Antoine Griezmann were largely anonymous, and that cannot be the case versus Peru, if the French are to seal their passage into the knockout stages.
Perhaps Deschamps will opt for the more reliable Olivier Giroud over one of the youngsters. Dembele’s problematic campaign at Barcelona seemed to affect his performance, in the first match at least.
Peru boast a style of play where flaws lie at the back, meaning if France fire it could be all over for La Blanquirroja.
Peru need points over performances
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Ricardo Gareca’s men garnered praise for their positive display in their opener, however came away with a result that leaves them in a predicament.
A similar pattern here would see them knocked out. The Peruvians created a host of chances against Denmark, none of which they could tuck home, and the lack of a clinical edge might have ultimate ramifications.
Their place in the World Cup is on the line, and even if they produce a far less attractive performance than in Saransk, if it means a win they will care little.
Peru certainly have the firepower to do France some damage, but whether their optimism is extinguished by a failure to finish chances is another matter.
Prediction: France to do the business
France know where they need to strengthen from their previous match, and I think they will do so here.
The desperation of Peru won’t help them out against a quality side in France, and their need to attack will be counteracted by gaps in the defence.
I can see Les Bleus picking Peru off, and the conclusion will be France paving their way to the knockouts and Peru being sent packing. 3-0 is my prediction.
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How do you think this game will pan out?