World champions France will be hoping to make a winning start to the UEFA Nations League when they take on Germany in a high profile clash at the Allianz Arena on Thursday.
Les Bleus lifted the World Cup trophy for the second time this summer, winning six of their seven matches within normal time on the way to an impressive victory.
Latest Odds
Having won two and lost none of the last three encounters against this opposition, they are available at 9/5 (2.80) with William Hill to maintain the feelgood factor with another victory in Munich.
In contrast, Joachim Low’s team suffered and embarrassing group stage exit in Russia, but are slight 29/20 (2.45) favourites to bounce back by coming out on top here.
The sides shared a 2-2 draw when they met in Cologne in last year’s friendly, and you can get odds of 12/5 (3.40) on them cancelling each other out once again.
Team News
Leroy Sane has returned to the squad after surprisingly missing out on a place in Russia, although is unlikely to start after failing to impress in the Premier League season with Manchester City.
Alphonse Areola should make his international debut in goal as Hugo Lloris is suffering from a thigh injury, while Benjamin Mendy is pushing for a starting spot after starting the season in impressive form.
Fragile defence
The most striking aspect of Die Mannschaft’s performances in Russia was the lack of cohesion, particularly in defence as their backline pressed forward even with the game in the balance.
Having failed to keep a clean sheet in five friendly matches heading into the tournament, the defending champions conceded in each of their three group games and looked alarmingly open at the back.
This should be punished by a star-studded French team that struck 11 times in four knockout stage matches, and has failed to score just once in 16 fixtures.
Predictions
Considering the Germans have only failed to score once in 25 home games, odds of 8/11 (1.73) offer solid value on them joining Didier Deschamps’ side on the scoresheet.
Both teams to score at 8/11 (1.73) for a 2.5pt stake with William Hill
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