France steps up – does Bayern star go down?

Last test before World Cup nomination

Vice world champion follows up: Will the Bayern star go under?

France won the endurance test against Brazil, now the next cracker is coming up. Opponent Colombia has to forget the defeat against Croatia (1:2).

Even before France’s game against Colombia on Sunday in Washington, national coach Didier Deschamps had made it clear that he would use the test to replace ten or eleven players compared to the most recent game against Brazil (2-1).

The 57-year-old explained his decision to “L’Équipe” as follows: “I want to see as many players as possible back on the pitch. I don’t have all the players’ physical data yet.” Deschamps wants to gain his final insights in order to be well prepared for the World Cup squad nomination in May.

Colombia coach Néstor Lorenzo, on the other hand, was happy with his team despite the 2-1 defeat against Croatia: “I think we played at a high level and apart from a few minor problems, we played very well.” Both teams have the best conditions for a hopefully entertaining text.

You can follow the game in the live ticker here.

Halftime – France are clearly setting the tone here and have been ice cold in front of the goal so far. It’s remarkable that Didier Deschamps’ team works so well, even though there were changes in all positions and the players probably won’t play together again. Colombia, on the other hand, is fighting and has a few chances. However, in the end the accuracy is often lacking.

45th minute – After that the game ripples along a bit. Neither team can really get in front of the opponent’s goal.

42nd minute – Almost the perfect answer from the Colombians. James places a heel on Daniel Muñoz. But the defender shoots just past Samba’s goal to the left.

41st minute – Thuram steps up for France. The French play through on the right side. Kalulu plays to Akliouche, who has time, puts his head up and targets the former Gladbacher in the middle. All Thuram has to do is hold his head and hit the crossbar to take the lead 2-0

39th minute – France has overall more ball possession and control of the game. Nevertheless, Colombia is always dangerous, but cannot consistently finish the situations. That’s why the South Americans still lack great opportunities.

36th minute – After a short break, both shake each other, Díaz stands first again. Then Samba can continue playing and is awarded a free kick.

34th minute – Arias crosses into the middle from the Colombian right side. Samba is there, but Díaz crashes into the Stade Rennes goalkeeper. Both initially remain on the floor.

32nd minute – James is cleared well in the penalty area, but is then called back because he comes out of passive offside and thus becomes active.