France has had an inconsistent history in World Cup action. They last won the championship in 1998. Second place was theirs in 2006. But in 2002 and 2010 they finished 28th and 29th respectively. A comeback of some sorts took place with a seventh-place run in 2014. Despite the World Cup betting rollercoaster France gets solid betting action. And for 2018 they are the public’s fourth choice at 6/1. As a team stacked deep with quality players much is expected of France. Beyond that public sharps and aficionados like the French.
2018 FIFA World Cup
Date and Time: June 14 through July 15, 2018
Location: Russia
World Cup Betting Online Odds at your favorite Sportsbook: France 6/1
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: Check Listings
Didier Deschamps
Head coach Didier Deschamps has tried to play down expectations. He is quick to tout the merits of Germany, Spain, and Brazil. Certainly, that threesome is the top tier of World Cup sportsbook betting. But Deschamps certainly knows his team is close is if not at that level as well. France’s coach laments that his team may not control games like the Terrific Trio. Yet he is quick to confess an embarrassment of riches on his own roster. Blowing hot and cold in qualifying is part of the reason for some detractors. Sweden gave them all they wanted and more.
France Potential
“Potential” is the word most associated with France. But nobody uses that word when it comes to Germany, Spain, and France. Didier himself is a big reason for France’s sportsbook online popularity. He was captain of the 1998 World Cup team. Loved by many for a no-nonsense coaching style he suffers no press fools. Few coaches are better at ruthlessly making tough decisions. Last October he received an extension that keeps him in charge until 2020.
Antoine Griezmann
Antoine Griezmann is an attacker that any team would love to have. Posting 19 goals and 51 caps he is a pro for Atletico Madrid. More than one expert said Griezmann was he best player in Euro 2016. Celebrated as a hard worker he is also an accomplished finisher. Labeled a threat in every game he plays Griezmann is celebrated as a team player. Capable of playing multiple positions, forward is where he calls home. Scoring ability from either side enhances his value. Few players have a better work ethic combined with mobility and pace.
Kylian Mbappe
Striker Kylian Mbappe is hailed as one of the best talents in the world. Armed with a deadly shot he will keep defenses on edge. Paris Saint Germain is his professional club. Sold as the “ultimate football talent” he will create opportunities for teammates. This is due to defenses having to pay extra attention to his lethal bombing ability. Questions to remain about how the 19-year-old will handle World Cup pressure.
Hugo Lloris
Goalkeeper Hugo Lloris is team captain and boasts 96 caps for Team France. Respected by all he brings top shelf reflexes and superior decision making to the pitch. Lloris is a three-time National Union of Professional Footballers goalkeeper of the year.
Matchup to Watch
France certainly commands World Cup sportsbook betting presence. But the truth is they are a notch below the big three. And having to rely on an under 20 striker at this level may be too much to ask.
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
France is good but greatness remains to be seen.
World Cup Betting Online Group Pick: France to fail to qualify for the semifinals.
Check out highlights of France’s phenom striker Kylian Mbappe!
