Friday, March 29, 2024

Maradona: French forwards must fire

SoccerNews in General Soccer News 23 Jun 2012

67 Views

Diego Maradona said France’s midfield and attacking players must be on song if they are to beat Spain at Euro 2012 on Saturday.

The Group D runners-up face Vicente del Bosque’s side in the quarter-finals, with the defending European champions the favourites to progress.

The Argentine coach feels the French side’s chances will depend on the likes of Karim Benzema and Franck Ribery.

“France have two bright stars in Real Madrid’s striker Karim Benzema and Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery,” the South American observed in his Times of India column.

“On a dark night like this, the stars will have to shine if France are to defeat world and European champions Spain. Ribery can be unstoppable at times, dribbling and passing with pace and genius. Benzema is a lethal finisher, although he hasn’t shown it in his championship as yet.

“If France are to win this crucial game, and remain in the tournament, Ribery and Benzema will have to hook up successfully for at least one goal.”

Spain’s midfield is loaded with world-class stars who use overwhelming possession to break teams down.

And Maradona has highlighted the importance of France’s players in the middle of the park and their role of winning back the ball.

“Defensive midfielder Yohan Cabaye had been very effective for the French, even scoring if necessary, and he will have to put in a huge performance as he faces the Spanish Armada,” he said.

“France will be without crucial midfielder Jeremy Menez and might replace him with Yann M’Vila. But Manchester City genius Samir Nasri has talent to burn, and with M’Vila, Alou Diarra will have to try to upset the constant ball control of the Spanish.

“It’s simple when you have players of the talent and calibre of (Andres) Iniesta, Xavi, (Cesc) Fabregas and (David) Silva. These four musketeers will control the game, and France will have to find their lone D’Artagnan if they are to defeat them.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SoccerNews

Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.

You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.

SHARE OR COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE

WE RECOMMEND

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This field is required *

Join the conversation!

or Register

More More
Top