Prediction: France vs Poland

Prediction: France win

Best Odds: 3/10

Bookmakers: 888sport

The FIFA World Cup has officially concluded its group stage as the knockouts get underway this weekend. A whole host of countries are expected to shine with the lights on bright but, in reality, this is where pressure and quality collide in the most extraordinary of ways. Today, we’re going to take a look at what should be a fascinating clash of styles between European sides France and Poland.

France

France are the reigning world champions and while they haven’t always been at the top of their game in this tournament, they’ve certainly showcased some of the skill that took them all the way in Russia four years ago. Kylian Mbappe will be the man leading the line as he always is, but they’re going to feel the kind of pressure that can only come from the success they’ve generated in years gone by.

Team News

There are no fresh injury concerns for the French with their strongest starting XI set to start from the Denmark clash.

Poland

This supposed golden generation has finally made their way to the knockouts of a major tournament, at least, on the world stage. They’ve hardly set the tournament alight thus far but the knockouts is the place to really turn it on – mainly because its one and done. They have their talisman in Lewandowski, and now, they need to prove that they can replicate that success throughout the entire squad.

Team News

Poland have no major injury worries of their own, ensuring their best side will start in the biggest game in their recent history.

Factors to Consider

• The winner of this game will play England or Senegal in the quarter-finals.
• France have won two and lost one of their games so far.
• Poland have won one, drawn one and lost one of their games so far.
• France have scored six goals and conceded three so far.
• Poland have scored two goals and conceded two so far.

Conclusion

When you match these two nations up in terms of quality, there really is no comparison. The French have the kind of strength in depth that’s enough to beat Poland twice over and while the underdogs may sit deep, we don’t think it’ll be enough. They’ll score in the first half to settle the nerves before adding another in the second, adding up to a relatively dull 2-0 victory for Les Bleus.

Prediction: France win

Best Odds: 3/10

Bookmakers: 888sport