France U23 vs Guinea U23 Prediction: Olympic hosts France U23 are expected to outclass Guinea U23 with a 2-0 result, as Thierry Henry’s talented squad looks to leverage their attacking depth and home soil advantage in this crucial Group A matchup.
Match Details
Match | France U23 National Football Team vs Guinea U23 National Football Team |
Competition | Olympics 2024 |
Date | July 27, 2024 |
Time | 19:00 UTC |
Venue | Allianz Riviera (Nice) |
Match Preview
The Allianz Riviera in Nice is set to host an intriguing Olympic men’s football clash between France U23 and Guinea U23 on July 27, 2024. This Group A encounter pits the tournament hosts against the debutants in what promises to be an exciting affair.
France, buoyed by their opening 3-0 victory over the USMNT, aim to secure their quarter-final berth with another win. Meanwhile, Guinea, having narrowly lost 2-1 to New Zealand, seek to cause an upset and keep their knockout stage hopes alive.
France U23 vs Guinea U23 Lineups and Formation
France U23 Lineup (Probable 4-3-3): Mateta, Chotard, Truffert, Millot, Lukeba, Lacazette, Kone, Sildillia, Bade, Restes, Olise
Coach Thierry Henry is likely to stick with the winning formula from their opener. The experienced trio of Lacazette, Bade, and captain Olise will be crucial in guiding the young French side.
Guinea U23 (Probable 4-2-3-1): Cisse, M. Keita, Balde, N. Keita, Bah, Moriba, Diallo, Diawara, Toure, Soumah, Sylla
Guinea’s coach Kaba Diawara may opt for a more defensive approach against the hosts. Captain Naby Keita’s experience will be vital in steadying the ship in midfield.
Key Players to Watch
France U23:
- Michael Olise: The Bayern Munich playmaker showcased his game-changing abilities with a brilliant strike against the USA. His creativity and vision could unlock the Guinean defense.
- Alexandre Lacazette: The veteran striker’s experience and clinical finishing will be crucial for the French attack.
Guinea U23:
- Amadou Diawara: The midfielder demonstrated his quality by scoring against New Zealand. His ability to dictate play from the center will be key to Guinea’s chances.
- Soumaila Sylla: The goalkeeper will need to put in a much-improved performance after a shaky debut against New Zealand.
Form and Stats
France U23 enter this match in high spirits following their convincing 3-0 win over the USA. They dominated possession and created numerous chances, eventually breaking through with three second-half goals.
Guinea U23, despite losing their opener, showed resilience against New Zealand. They equalized in the 72nd minute but conceded shortly after, ultimately falling 2-1.
Head-to-Head
This will be the first-ever meeting between France U23 and Guinea U23 at the Olympic level.
Standings
Group A:
- France U23 – 3 points
- New Zealand U23 – 3 points
- Guinea U23 – 0 points
- United States U23 – 0 points
Injuries and Suspensions
No major injuries or suspensions have been reported for either side ahead of this clash.
Where to Watch
US viewers can catch the action live on:
- Telemundo
- NBC Sports App
- Peacock
Prediction: Who Will Win?
While Guinea showed fighting spirit in their opener, France’s quality and home advantage make them strong favorites. The hosts’ attacking prowess, led by Olise and Lacazette, should prove too much for the Olympic debutants.
France U23 vs Guinea U23 Prediction: France U23 2-0 Guinea U23
France are expected to control possession and create numerous chances. Guinea will likely focus on frustrating the hosts and looking to counter, but France’s superior quality should see them through comfortably.
Latest News
- France U23 coach Thierry Henry praised his team’s patience in breaking down the USA defense in their opening match.
- Guinea U23 captain Naby Keita, making his first appearance since March, aims to inspire his young teammates to an unlikely positive result.
This Olympic clash presents an opportunity for France to stamp their authority on the tournament, while Guinea will be eager to prove they belong on this stage. All eyes will be on the Allianz Riviera as these two nations face off in what promises to be an enthralling encounter.
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