FOOTBALL

World Cup Predictions: France vs Australia

Published

2 years ago

November 22, 2022

admin

France will look to leave their injury woes behind and start their title defence in an emphatic fashion when they lock horns with Australia at the Al Janoub Stadium.

While France came to Qatar with a view to becoming the first team since Brazil to win successive World Cups, the Australians will try to arrest their unfortunate streak of group-stage eliminations and return to the knockout stages for the first time since 2006.

France are not entering the fray under the best of circumstances.

Karim Benzema became the latest heavyweight omission from the Les Bleus World Cup squad as he picked up a thigh injury in training.

The 22 Ballon d’Or joined the likes of Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante, Presnel Kimpembe, and Christopher Nkunku in the injury absentees list.

France’s Patchy form

France’s recent form have been far from impressive as well.

They could not win in five of their last six matches going into the World Cup, lost the Nations League and barely survived relegation, and got eliminated from the Euro 2020 round of 16.

But France still have enough quality in their squad to retain their favourites tag in the competition. So, they will eye an easy win against Australia to get their World Cup defence mission underway.

However, France should be wary of history. In recent World Cups, reigning World Cup champions have failed miserably in their title-defending campaigns.

Four of the last five defending champions have crashed out of the group stages. France themselves had that bitter experience in 2002. Moreover, no defending champions managed to win their first match since 2010.

But Australia will not feel that history is on their side when they take on the current world champions in their opening match.

The Socceroos did not win their first match in the competition since 2014, and they have only one win against European teams in seven attempts.

Graham Arnold’s side ensured tickets for the Qatar World Cup with a playoff penalty win over Peru. Australia come on the back of two friendly wins over neighbours New Zealand, but they would know that they will need to pull off something special to grind out a favourable result against France.

Australia met France in the group stages four years ago.

They were on the brink of securing a historic result as the scores were locked 1-1 into the 80th minute. But an Aziz Behich own goal deprived the Aussies of a seemingly deserved share in the spoils.

Team News

Didier Deschamps has declared that he will not bring in a replacement for Benzema.

So, Olivier Giroud, Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappé, and Ousmane Dembélé could form the French frontline against Australia.

Deschamps might feel it’s too early for Raphaël Varane, who has just returned to training, and hand over the keys to the backline to Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konaté.

Australia might not get the services of Martin Boyle as the striker struggles with a knee problem.

Harry Souttar is ready to make his return to the Australian backline after returning from a lengthy ACL injury layoff. But, Graham Arnold might choose Bailey Wright over the Stoke City defender.

Our Prediction

France have been struggling lately with injuries and poor form. But the balance of this tie still tips heavily towards the current world champions.

We foresee a 2-0 win for France.

FC Goa

FC Goa Triumphs Over Mohun Bagan with a 2-1 Victory

Published

1 day ago

December 21, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan! FC Goa secured a memorable 2-1 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League at Fatorda Stadium. This high-stakes encounter ended Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten streak, marking a significant moment in the league.

Brison Fernandes opened the scoring for FC Goa in the 13th minute, assisted by Borja Herrera. His shot deflected off Mohun Bagan’s Tom Aldred, giving Goa an early lead. Despite pressing attacks, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on opportunities during the first half, keeping FC Goa ahead.

The second half saw Mohun Bagan equalize through Dimitrios Petratos’ penalty, awarded after a handball by Armando. With the match level, momentum shifted briefly in favor of Mohun Bagan. However, FC Goa struck again in the 68th minute as Brison Fernandes headed in Herrera’s precise cross, sealing the lead and eventual victory for the home side. FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan!

FC Goa’s defense stood firm during the closing stages, with Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia effectively countering Mohun Bagan’s attempts to find another equalizer. This win elevated FC Goa to third place in the league standings with 22 points from 12 matches, showcasing their strong form this season.

The match underscored FC Goa’s resilience and tactical discipline, while Mohun Bagan will aim to bounce back from this setback. Fans were treated to an exciting contest, reflecting the competitive spirit of the league.

FC Goa

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant! The Indian Super League (ISL) promises an intense showdown as FC Goa faces league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant this Friday at Fatorda. With playoff positions at stake, both teams are set for a thrilling encounter.

FC Goa aims to break into the top three with a win, continuing their unbeaten six-match streak. Striker Armando Sadiku leads the Goa attack with eight goals in ten matches, while midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic add creativity. Young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari’s three clean sheets in five matches provide defensive assurance. FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant!

Mohun Bagan, atop the league with 26 points, has relied on Jamie Maclaren’s scoring consistency and Greg Stewart’s midfield mastery. Although Stewart will miss the match due to injury, the Mariners boast six clean sheets this season, anchored by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.

Both teams have impressive records, with Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season. The match could define playoff aspirations as Mohun Bagan aims to solidify their position, and Goa seeks to climb the rankings. Fans anticipate a tightly contested game between two strong sides showcasing Indian football’s growing quality.

The match is critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations. FC Goa looks to capitalize on their home advantage and attacking prowess, while Mohun Bagan seeks to extend their dominance at the top of the league. With FC Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season, the battle promises to be a showcase of quality football.

Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes clash, which could significantly impact the league’s playoff picture. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, ensuring a thrilling contest.

FC Goa

Mohun Bagan SG and FC Goa Face Off in ISL 2024-25 Thriller

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

Mohun Bagan SG faces FC Goa in a thrilling ISL 2024-25 encounter, promising intense action and crucial league implications.

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 features a highly anticipated clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa at Fatorda’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. Both teams come into this encounter in solid form, aiming to strengthen their campaigns at a crucial juncture in the season.

Mohun Bagan leads the standings with an unbeaten streak, registering seven wins and a draw in ISL 2024-25. Their defensive strength is evident, having kept six clean sheets. FC Goa, sitting fourth on the table, boasts a dynamic attacking style, with nine different players contributing goals this season.

This battle between Mohun Bagan’s resolute defense and Goa’s attacking versatility promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Goa seeks to overcome the league leaders and secure vital points to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan looks to extend its dominance and consolidate its position at the top.

Key players to watch include Mohun Bagan’s defensive stalwarts and Goa’s offensive playmakers. Both sides have demonstrated their capability to adapt to challenging situations, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. With the mid-season point approaching, the match carries significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.

Fans can expect an intense, action-packed game as two of the ISL’s top teams vie for supremacy. Mohun Bagan’s strategic discipline will be tested against Goa’s creative and relentless attacks. This matchup is a must-watch for football enthusiasts, showcasing the best of Indian football talent.