They may only be going into their second game, but there are not many teams who fall into the 'Outsiders' category like France. There are obviously four or so strong favourites and some impressive teams outside of that, but for a good bet to be in the World Cup until the latter stages, Didier Deschamps' side should be taken seriously. After the debacle of 2010, and some big names not part of the squad now for varying reasons (Henry, Nasri and Ribery), it would be easy to discount France. However, with a closer look at their best team and what the Tournament can entail, a good showing isn't such a bold statement.
Leading the line is the still underrated, and at times enigma that is Karim Benzema. He got off to a flier with two, nearly three goals versus Honduras. Some may say this isn't an overly gruelling test and it's game one. However, there is no doubt the Real Madrid star is in some of his best form. The talent has always been there, just the concentration and consistency hasn't always. He was always one of those Forwards who could miss two good chances and then score from a difficult one. Now he's scoring two of the three opportunities and involved a lot more in general game play. Last season at Madrid, he can count a Winner versus Bayern Munich and Cup Final assist against Barcelona amongst varying examples of his worth to the side. Even if France do flatter to deceive slightly, don't bet against Benzema being up there amongst the Tournaments Top Scorers.
The side can maybe be said to have inexperience in parts and is yet to fully gel. Having to rely on the likes of Raphael Varane - 21 and Antoine Greizmann - 23 in their first tournaments instead of the likes of now retired Gallas or Injured Ribery is always a gamble. However, quality is quality. Younger players can now be less of a worry than old. Players going into their First Tournaments often find more freedom and not being attributed to past failures (2010) is a weight off them. Who knows - if Sakho and Varane can click at the back and all the way through to Griezmann creating for an in form Benzema, then Les Blues have a good team there. First step, build on their First Win and get out of the group. This World Cup has been sure to surprise.
Source: DSG
