France kick off their Euro 2008 campaign against Adrian Mutu's Romania on Monday, June 9, 2008 in Zurich. Mutu, in form for his country during Euro 2008 qualifiers, is a goal-scoring threat, but France's defense should keep a clean sheet.
Wicked Deflection hereby reveals it's predicted first 11 for France against Romania.
Benzema is surely one of the bright spots for France. He has great pace with the ball at his feet and shoots ruthlessly with both feet. It is largely because of Benzema that people like James Doyle at the Guardian believe France may have the best squad in the tournament. Other players expected to perform include Makalele in the Makalele role, Henry up front, Coupet finally getting his long-over-due run in goal, Thuram looking confident, if slower, Gallas without the pressure of being Arsenal captain, Sagnol with his lethal crosses, Ribery running down the channels, and Anelka, Nasri, and Diarra coming on. Domenech will want to give Diarra a run.
ESPN 2 will carry the match in the states. 
Click the image to enlarge
That's noon Eastern my friends. I'm taking the whole day off.
Prediction: France 3-0.
1 hour ago
Posts
3 deflections:
I'm in California and also taking the whole day off :) I want to see what Italy and Holland look like afterward as well. It's going to be very difficult to juggle these matches with my work!! :)
I like that lineup, and I hope Romania isn't as formidable as I fear they are. 3-0 (for France!) sounds great!
Right on, Phil.
Logistically, I can't do a lot of games live. France could be an exception, though, because I'm so anxious to see them play their best.
Netherlands won't see a blemish against the w(h)ine and cheese crowd in this group. Romania should take a bite out of France's title hopes.
Post a Comment