A rivalry of culture, language and much more will translate to the pitch when England sets up against familiar foes France.
There are tons of superstars on both teams and all of them have been firing in the tournament. France might have been struck with a crisis of injuries before the tournament, but they have looked in good shape thus far.
While France is looking to defend their title, England is seeking to establish their supremacy. Despite the fact that each team has many superstars, France looks a lot better than England due to its experience. If this match matches up to expectations, it could be a much bigger spectacle than the final.
Current form in all competitions
England form (all comps): D-W-D-W-W
France form (all comps): L-W-W-L-W
A good number of stars will be on show and a name that comes up top is none other than Kylian Mbappe.
Kylian Mbappe is the top scorer of the tournament with five goals and is prolly the biggest roadblock between England and their World Cup dream. He has been a rampant force on wings and his battle with Kylie Walker will be a neck-to-neck contest.
Mbappe has done it for France so far in the tournament and will be hoping to continue his run.
Meanwhile, lurking at the other end is Harry Kane. He has been the captain on a mission for three lions in the campaign so far. Although, he didn’t have luck in front of the goal in the starting matches but now has found his scoring boots back. He can be a trump card for England, especially against an untested French defence.
There’s some boost in England’s camp as
Raheem Sterling has returned from home and is available for selection for Southgate. Arsenal’s Ben White is still absent from the squad.
France don’t have any injury concerns going into the match but Tchouameni and Kunde are in danger of missing Semi-Finals if they are booked again.
Predicted Lineup
England predicted lineup
(4-3-3)
Pickford, Walker, Stones, Maguire, Shaw, Bellingham, Rice, Henderson, Saka, Kane, Foden
France predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Lloris, Kounde, Varane, Upamecano, T. Hernandez, Tchouameni, Rabiot, Dembele, Griezmann, Mbappe, Giroud
France are the defending champions of the tournament and the match against England is going to be the biggest test for them. Both teams are filled with match-winners but France have experience in succeeding at bigger stages.