World Cup Preview - France v Australia
Sat 16/06/2018 - 8pm
Odds: France $1.22, Australia $12.00
The Socceroos World Cup campaign kicks off against France this Saturday night (8pm) at Kazan Arena.
The French side is paying just $1.22 to start the World Cup with an easy win and it’s hard to see an upset here. Australia struggled to quality for this World Cup and lack the stars around the park that France possesses. France are paying $7 to win the 2018 World Cup final and just $1.30 to take out Group C.
Recent World Cup History
France:
2014 Quarter Finalists
2010 Group Stage Exit
2006 Runner’s Up
Australia:
2014 Group Stage Exit
2010 Group Stage Exit
2006 Round of 16
Current Form
Australia have warmed up for the World Cup with 3 contrasting Friendly matches. They drew 0-0 against a formidable team in Columbia. Then they thrashed the Czech Republic 4-0 in a performance that will get Australian fans excited for the Cup. Matthew Leckie was the star with a brace. Australia’s last match was pretty disappointing despite a 2-1 win over Hungary. They were sloppy in defence and can’t afford the same against France. But winning form is the key and Australian fans have reason to be somewhat optimistic in this matchup.
In March, France recorded a 3-1 win over Russia in Saint Petersburg. Mbappé scoring a double on that occasion. At home in late May/early June, they beat Ireland 2-0 and Italy 3-1 in their previous Friendly matches. On Sunday, they were held to a 1-1 draw by the USA in their last game before the World Cup. They went down 1-0 just before half-time and Mbappé came through again with a 78th minute goal.
Head to Head
Australia has never played France in the World Cup but they did meet in the Confed Cup in 2001 (Australia 1-0). In recent times, they last played each other in 2013 and France pumped the Aussies 6-0.
2013 - France 6, Australia 0
2001 - France 1 ,Australia 1
2001 - Australia 1, France 0
1994 - France 1, Australia 0
Players to Watch
Antoine Griezmann (France) is the key striker up forward for the French. He plays for Atletico Madrid and is one of the top favourites for the Golden Boot. Australia’s defence will be kept on their toes all game with Griezmann looking to start his tournament with a few goals.
Kylian Mbappé (France) has been in superb touch during France’s recent Friendly matches. He was a star at the Under-19 level and will be looking to make his mark at this World Cup.
Tim Cahill (Australia) will most likely be playing in his last World Cup for the Socceroos. He’s been a wonderful player to watch over his career. His trademark header is probably Australia’s only chance of winning this game.
Aaron Mooy (Australia) hasn't really found the back of the net in a Socceroos jersey with just 5 goals in 34 appearances. But I think his recent European football experiences should give him more motivation to lead Australia's attack in this World Cup.
Prediction
This is going to be the Aussies toughest test at this World Cup against the much favoured French. France are loaded with top players from the European football leagues and they’ll be looking to start this tournament with a statement win. Australia’s best chance at victory is taking every opportunity in front of goal. They’ll need to keep the likes of Griezmann quiet in-front of goal as well. But in the end, I can’t see it happening and have France easily taking this game. In the end, I don’t see France giving up a lead and will take the $1.72 odds for the HT/FT bet.
France HT/FT $1.72
