Olivier Giroud starts as France take on Nigeria
France coach Didier Deschamps has opted to start both Olivier Giroud and Karim Benzema in Les Bleus’ first knockout game against Nigeria.
Matthias Hangst
France coach Didier Deschamps has opted to start two centre-forwards in his side's round of 16 clash with Nigeria, with Olivier Giroud and Karim Benzema both named in the starting lineup. It's a move that will likely see Benzema drift in from a position on the left, with the more natural winger Antoine Griezmann made to settle for a position on the bench.
Les Bleus’ only other surprise selection is the inclusion of Laurent Koscielny alongside Raphaël Varane at centre-back. Mamadou Sakho was doubtful heading into the game, and evidently wasn’t declared fit enough to start in defence.
Nigeria are largely as expected, though Joseph Yobo has retained his position over Godfrey Oboabona at centre-back, and Victor Moses has been given the nod over Ramon Azeez and Michael Uchebo in the Super Eagles' attacking midfield band.
France starting lineup (4-3-3): Hugo Lloris; Patrice Evra, Laurent Koscielny, Raphaël Varane, Mathieu Debuchy; Blaise Matuidi, Yohan Cabaye, Paul Pogba; Karim Benzema, Olivier Giroud, Mathieu Valbuena.
Nigeria starting lineup (4-2-3-1): Vincent Enyeama; Juwon Oshaniwa, Joseph Yobo, Kenneth Omeruo, Efe Ambrose; John Obi Mikel, Ogenyi Onazi; Ahmed Musa, Victor Moses, Peter Odemwingie; Emmanuel Emenike.
See More:
