France could all-but seal their place in the knockout stages of the World Cup by beating Peru in Group C on Thursday afternoon.
Les Bleus made an unconvincing start to their campaign by recording a late win over Australia. They will have to improve from their display against the Socceroo’s if they are to beat Peru, though.
The victory last time out means that Didier Deschamps’ team have won four of their last five games in all competitions. Les Bleus have been prolific in front of goal of late, scoring at least two goals in eight of their last nine outings.
France has a respectable recent record at World Cup finals, winning four of their last six games while suffering just one defeat in the process.
Chelsea striker Oliver Giroud could come in up front, with Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele the most likely to miss out. Midfielder Blaise Matuidi could also start in place of Corentin Tolisso.
Peru deserved more from their opening game against Denmark than a 1-0 defeat. However, a host of missed chances cost the South American team dearly. The defeat ended a 15-game unbeaten run for Ricardo Gareca’s side.
They have a big job on their hands to bounce back in this game. However, the South American outfit have a massive positive in the fact that they have conceded just two goals in their last eight outings.
Peru are making their first appearance at a World Cup since 1982. Their record at finals is a poor one, as they have now lost five of their last seven games, a record they will need to improve to maintain their hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages.
Top scorer Paolo Guerrero started the Denmark game on the bench. However, he should start this game.
Forebet predicts that France will record a victory in a low scoring clash that should see Les Bleus move closer to the last 16.