No over exertion from France in round of 16
The pressure moves over to France on Monday evening when they face off with Group A's third placed side Switzerland in Bucharest. Didier Deschamps' men are overwhelming favourites but as we have seen from the Czech Republic, anyone can beat anyone on a one game basis. The World Cup champions took their foot off the accelerator in Group F with two score draws against Hungary and Portugal following their 1-0 victory over Germany on matchday one. The Swiss gathered themselves and put in a huge performance to defeat Turkey 3-1 to seal qualification via third place with talisman when onsong Xherdan Shaqiri demonstrating his class.
Background
All is well that ends well and even though there were hiccups, the French still took top spot in Group F and as a result play one of the weaker nations left in the round of 16. Croatia or Spain await to winner of this encounter, too sides that have flattered to deceive a touch in the competition. Deschamps would be more than content for France to bore themselves through to the quarters with a 1-0 win, he prioritises defensive solidity and I expect no different here, regardless of inferior opposition. Kylian Mbappe is yet to break his duck in the tournament and maybe he can be the difference maker as we enter the knockout stages. Switzerland are perennial round of 16 losers and in spite of the talent in the squad do not command a place in the last eight, they have their work cut out in this one.
The battle in central areas between the world class partnership of N'Golo Kante and Paul Pogba against the hardworking Remo Freuler and Granit Xhaka will be interesting. The underdogs boast a resolute back three with Fabian Schar, Manuel Akanji and Nico Elvedi all astute at international level, if they can get a foothold and keep the margins fine then you cannot write off Vladimir Petkovic's men.
The experience from the World Cup will help the French tenfold, not panicking if they have to grind Switzerland down over a longer stretch of time than expected. They have the individuals to dig themselves out of trouble no matter the game situation and will step up now the end is in sight.
It is a outright and goals double to find value in this match, Switzerland will sit back and ensure France do not have it all their own way.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
France threw it away, having led 3-1, incredible Swiss courage saw it end 3-3 and then a triumph on penalties. Outstanding heart and determination shown from the underdogs.