France vs. Honduras, World Cup 2014: Lineups
There are few surprises in the starting lineups for France’s World Cup opener against Honduras.
France start their World Cup with the 4-3-3 that coach Didier Deschamps has been crafting recently, which means Paul Pogba and Blaise Matuidi operate either side of Yohan Cabaye in the center of midfield, while Antoine Griezmann and Mathieu Valbuena start as wide attackers. Karim Benzema is given the nod over Olivier Giroud up front.
There is a slight surprise in Luis Fernando Suárez’s preference for a 4-4-2 over a more defensive 4-3-3 for Honduras, with Jerry Bengtson starting up top alongside Carlo Costly. That means Roger Espinoza will probably start wide on the left, and young Andy Najar on the right. Óscar Boniek García has to settle for a spot on the bench.
France starting lineup (4-3-3): Hugo Lloris; Patrice Evra, Mamadou Sakho, Raphaël Varane, Mathieu Debuchy; Blaise Matuidi, Yohan Cabaye, Paul Pogba; Antoine Griezmann, Karim Benzema, Mathieu Valbuena.
Honduras starting lineup (4-4-2): Noel Valladares; Emilio Izaguirre, Maynor Figueroa, Víctor Bernárdez, Brayan Beckeles; Roger Espinoza, Luis Garrido, Wilson Palacios, Andy Najar; Carlo Costly, Jerry Bengtson.
