World Cup Preview - Group G - France

France:

Nickname: “Les Bleus”

Coach: Raymond Domenech.

Game Schedule:
June 13 – France vs. Switzerland (12 p.m. EST)
June 18 – France vs. South Korea (3 p.m.)
June 22 – France vs. Togo (3 p.m.)

Prospects: After a disastrous 2002 World Cup and a disappointing Euro 2004 campaign, when they were eliminated by the eventual winners Greece, somehow France are the overlooked team of this competition. True, the ’98 generation has largely moved on into management. Yet, I reckon that the French are better than most are willing to admit, and surely good enough to dominate this understrength group. The one liability they have is in coach Domenech, who is prone to bizarre judgments, such as favoring the erratic Fabien Barthez over Gregory Coupet in goal and playing the shocking Jean –Alain Boumsong at the heart of the defense. If someone can put a leash on Domenech, France have the quality to make it to the latter stages.

Key Player: Thierry Henry – the best striker on the planet. The myth is that he doesn’t show up for the big matches, especially when playing for “Les Bleus.” We’ll see if he can prove the critics wrong.

Youngster to watch: Pompey’s impressive right back Pascal Chimbonda.

Who Will Get the Goals: That’s simple – TH-14.

Who Will Get the Cards: Claude Makelele – as he’s consistently shown at Chelsea, the midfielder likes to put the boot in.

Funniest Name: PSG midfield Vikash Dhorasoo.

Prediction: Beaten by Italy on penalties after a tense 0-0 quarterfinal match.