FIFA World Cup 2014 Preview, Schedule, Dates and Predictions: France vs. Switzerland
It's very likely that both France and Switzerland will make it out of the FIFA's 2014 World Cup's Group E and play in the knockout round. But, nothing is guaranteed when these teams lock horns on Friday in Brazil.
These teams have to treat this like an elimination game because anything can happen going forward. Especially because Ecuador will most likely rebound and defeat Honduras in the group. Who has the edge? Latin Post.com takes a look:
France
The French team comes in ranked No. 17 in the world with their balanced team. Manager Didier Deschamps played for France in the early '90s. He has chosen a young, but still experienced squad.
France's captain is Hugo Lloris, their goalkeeper, who is playing in his second World Cup. Management is choosing to go with just three starters; Olivier Giroud, Loic Rémy and most notably Karim Benzema. Benzema made a great name for himself playing for Real Madrid.
Patrice Evra and Bacary Sagna lead the defensive unit against No. 6 Switzerland.
Switzerland
Switzerland is very similar to the French team. They are not filled with superstars, but they bring balance. Most eyes will be on the midfield tandem of Tranquillo Barnetta and Gokham Inler. Just like France, the Swiss don't put much emphasis on their offense. All four starting forwards for Team Switzerland are under 25 years old and will be playing in their first World Cup. That's a lot of pressure.
Switzerland has never advanced past the quarterfinal round of the World Cup, but head coach Ottmar Hitzfield (German-born) believes this team can make history this year.
Where and when to watch
These two teams will play at the Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador in front of more than 50,000 fans. Coverage begins Friday at 2:30 p.m. EST on ESPN right after Italy takes on Costa Rica. Fans can watch the game online via WatchESPN's app.
Prediction
It's doubtful we'll get a high scoring affair here. Although this has been a very high-scoring World Cup. France will be favored to win by many fans, but Switzerland will rise to the challenge. Switzerland wins 2-1.
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