World Cup 2018: Getting to know Team France

With the World Cup less than three weeks away, the FTW staff is breaking down all 32 teams vying to lift the trophy in July.

France's Group C schedule

France vs. Australia – June 16 at 6 a.m. ET | TV: FS1

France vs. Peru – June 21 at 11 a.m. ET | TV: FOX

France vs. Denmark – June 26 at 10 a.m. ET | TV: FOX

Best players

France is loaded with young talent with Manchester United's Paul Pogba leading the way in midfield. Pogba has nine goals in 51 national team caps. French national team vet Olivier Giroud, who impressed in his move across London from Arsenal to Chelsea, and Atletico Madrid's Antoine Griezmann will also give Didier Deschamps plenty of attacking options.

Recent World Cup history

France recovered from the toxic and embarrassing showing in South Africa to reach the 2014 quarterfinals in Brazil. The Blues won their only World Cup in 1998 and were the 2006 runner-ups (the Zinedine Zidane headbutt match).

What experts say about France

If chemistry can blend with the talent, another deep run will be possible for France. Via ESPN:

Les Bleus will probably reach the last eight, but going further than that will require a significant change in attitude. Perhaps the the tournament will bring exactly that, making the semifinals a distinct possibility.

How to be a fan

While European powers like Italy and Netherlands have failed as of late to develop young talent necessary to qualify for the World Cup, France has the youth and talent for serious staying power (star striker Kylian Mbappé is just 19). You can get his jersey here.

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