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On the final stage of this year's World Cup, France and Argentina will face off at the top of their game. The two teams have equal strengths and are both known for their powerful offense and solid defense. The starting lineup is strong, and there is a gap between the players on the bench, but overall, both teams have the strength to compete for the title.
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It has not been all smooth sailing for Argentina in this World Cup tour. Early in the group stage, the team suffered a defeat at the hands of Saudi Arabia, which led to a demoralization of the team. Both leading scorer Lautaro Martinez and winger Di Maria failed to live up to expectations. Coach Scaloni kept adjusting his tactics, bringing in youngster Enzo Fernandez as the center of the midfield and allowing MacAllister to support him on the left, while De Paul on the right was able to relieve the pressure. Late in the group stage, Argentina gradually found the rhythm of the game and defeated Croatia in the quarterfinals, establishing an attacking combination centered on Messi and Alvarez.
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France also suffered early on in this World Cup, with a number of key players dropping out due to injury. Coach Deschamps brought in youngsters Tchouameni, Camavinga and Fofana to fill in the gaps. After Lucas Hernandez was injured against Australia in the opening match of the group stage, Theo Hernandez came on as a substitute and did a great job. Coach Deschamps reintroduced Rabiot to the back four, forming a partnership with Tchouameni in both offense and defense. Rabiot's performance in this year's World Cup has been very impressive, both in supporting Mbappe on the offensive side of the ball and in building a defense for the team on the defensive side of the ball, both of which have been crucial.
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On the defensive end, France's starting center backs Varane and Upamecano were outstanding, with right back Kounde blocking the opponent's right side and left back Theo Hernandez constantly pressing the opponent. On the attacking end, Mbappe was able to move freely through the opposing defense, and the French attacking force was brought into full play. Under the tactical system of Coach Deschamps, France is expected to go far in this World Cup with both offense and defense.
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Against Argentina, France is expected to play a 4231 formation, with Mbappe on the left, Giroud in the center, Dembele pushing and passing, and Griezmann playing freely in the middle. On the counterattack, France's formation is flexible and versatile, with the backline attacking on the left and defending on the right, Theo Hernandez pressing forward, and Kounde in charge of defense. At the back, Coach Deschamps may adjust his lineup depending on the opponent, opting for an attacking Rabiot or a defensive Forfana.
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