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Our next match preview will be between the holders of the World Cup, France and Australia from Group D. These two faced each other four years ago in the opening round. That is a great omen for France after they then went on and won the tournament in Russia. An interesting fact about that game was that the only goal scored in open play was an own goal!
We are now getting into the swing of the World Cup, with a few groups taking shape already. The team at RotoBaller has you covered for all your World Cup needs. We'll bring you DFS articles, game previews, and betting picks throughout the competition.
Before you read on, remember these essential things: Betting on sports should be fun. If you aren't having fun with it, stop. And never bet what you can't afford to lose. Follow the team on Twitter (@LucidMediaDFS, @PhilOfSports, @EuanOrYouOut, @df_solutions, @Mark_Kieffer, @wagmifantasy, @Baseball_Jimbo, and myself, @RichKingFF), and reach out to any of us if you ever have any soccer questions or need advice on any of this.
France Team Breakdown
France would have a very look and feel about it if they were 'full noise'. The fact that they are on paper still a strong team, highlights the strength that this team has. France is likely to operate with a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Strengths: The strength of this team is pressing and going forward. Despite the crushing blow of losing Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema, the team is able to call on the talents of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Antoine Griezmann and Olivier Giroud. With the experience of Hugo Lloris in goal too, they are solid at the back and at the front.
Weaknesses: The weakness for France, is the lack of chemistry for some key units. With the players that have been made unavailable, there are plenty of new combinations.
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Australia Team Breakdown
Australia has their hardest opponent for their first game, which can be a blessing if they can catch this France team who is struggling to fill the gaps left by their injured players. Their manager, Graham Arnold, has played the team in a 4-3-3 formation, but that could change in the hope of getting a result here.
Strengths: Inexperience and form. Not normally a strength of a team, but this young group (nine played for Australia's U23 side at the Olympics in Tokyo), has none of the baggage of experience. This team has also won their last five games, so belief amongst this group is high. With veteran Aaron Mooy likely pulling the strings in the middle of the field, we could see an energetic performance here.
Weaknesses: Lack of game-winners. Yes, set pieces are a great opportunity for a team to steal a goal, but there aren't any players that you look at and think "that could be a challenge for France".
France vs Australia Prediction
This matchup is more interesting than it would have been if France were at full strength. The fact that the team is going to be required to work on some combinations on the field, and the form that Australia is in, means we could see them struggle here. Ultimately, France has too much talent in attack to be denied.
Score prediction: France 2 - 0 Australia
