Jonathan Johnson: After beating Romania 2-1 in the opening fixture of the tournament, France have the chance to make it six points from a possible six at Stade Velodrome on Wednesday. A win would guarantee the hosts' place in the latter stages and potentially end Albania's hopes of reaching the knockout phase.
Les Bleus were not entirely convincing in their narrow victory over Romania at Stade de France last Friday, but after almost two years without a competitive fixture, that was to be anticipated. Now that Didier Deschamps' men have had a taste for serious action once again, more can be expected of them against Albania.
France need to be more clinical in attack and tighter at the back, while certain stars need to concentrate more on contributing towards a team effort rather than living up to individual pre-tournament hype. Gianni de Biasi's minnows could be on the receiving end of a thrashing from the two-time winners.
Maher Mezahi: Albania's backs are against the wall following an agonizing loss to Switzerland. The Balkan nation gave a great account of itself despite playing with 10 men when captain Lorik Cana was sent off in just the 36th minute of the match.
Burim Kukeli will replace the suspended Cana in defence, and Ledian Memushaj will deputize in midfield. Gianni De Biasi will also look for Andi Lila to replace Odise Roshi on the right wing. The 30 year-old utility man started his career as a fullback, so his defensive qualities will be crucial to neutralizing the likes of Dimitri Payet on the wing.
Les Bleus were not entirely convincing in their narrow victory over Romania at Stade de France last Friday, but after almost two years without a competitive fixture, that was to be anticipated. Now that Didier Deschamps' men have had a taste for serious action once again, more can be expected of them against Albania.
France need to be more clinical in attack and tighter at the back, while certain stars need to concentrate more on contributing towards a team effort rather than living up to individual pre-tournament hype. Gianni de Biasi's minnows could be on the receiving end of a thrashing from the two-time winners.
Maher Mezahi: Albania's backs are against the wall following an agonizing loss to Switzerland. The Balkan nation gave a great account of itself despite playing with 10 men when captain Lorik Cana was sent off in just the 36th minute of the match.
Burim Kukeli will replace the suspended Cana in defence, and Ledian Memushaj will deputize in midfield. Gianni De Biasi will also look for Andi Lila to replace Odise Roshi on the right wing. The 30 year-old utility man started his career as a fullback, so his defensive qualities will be crucial to neutralizing the likes of Dimitri Payet on the wing.
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