The national coach waited until the very last moment this morning to make the decision to start Karim Benzema for the France – Croatia match counting for the 4th day of the League of Nations. The Merengue had only been content to jog this Sunday during the last training of the Blues. But after consultation with the Real Madrid striker, Didier Deschamps decided to put him in the lead with Kylian Mbappé, who is returning as a starter after his successful entry into Vienna where he scored the equalizing goal (1-1) at the end meeting. Christopher Nkunku, prominent at this gathering unlike Antoine Griezmann, completes this star duo.
Like the last 2 games of the League of Nations, the coach decided to maintain a defense at 4 with Ibrahima Konaté and Presnel Kimpembe in the axis and Jules Koundé at the post of right side. Lucas Digne will play on the left side. For the purpose, Mike Maignan will celebrate his 4th selection. The midfield will be occupied by Adrien Rabiot, Mattéo Guendouzi and Boubacar Kamara, author of a satisfactory first cape on Friday in Austria. Last in Group 1 (two draws and one defeat) of Ligue A, the Blues must obtain their first victory in the competition this evening (8:45 p.m.) at the Stade de France or risk not being able to defend their title in the League of Nations or even to come dangerously close to the descent into League B.
The squad: Maignan – Kounde, Konate, Kimpembe (cap.), Digne – Kamara, Guendouzi, Rabiot – Nkunku, Mbappe, Benzema.