Share

Argentina wary but confident ahead of France - Lo Celso

Bronnitsy - Argentina midfielder Giovani Lo Celso said there are "flaws" to exploit against France when the countries meet in the last 16 of the Soccer World Cup on Saturday.

Two-time champions Argentina scraped through to the knockout phase as runners-up in Group D following a tense 2-1 win over Nigeria in their final match.

READ: Argentina revival - false dawn or renewed promise?

Lo Celso is more familiar than most with Argentina's upcoming opponents as three of his Paris Saint-Germain team-mates - Kylian Mbappe, Presnel Kimpembe and Alphonse Areola - are in the France squad.

"We're facing a great opponent, a great team that was unbeaten in the group phase. But we know we're a big team too and we have our weapons. I think it's going to be a great game," Lo Celso said on Thursday.

"The France team, with space and the people they have, can put you in danger. In general it's a very good team and very united.

"But while they have many strengths they also have flaws and we have to take advantage of them."

READ: Argentina, Colombia to play exhibition in New Jersey

Defender Federico Fazio said on Tuesday's victory over Nigeria had boosted the spirit within the camp after a 3-0 loss to Croatia had left Argentina on the verge of elimination.

"It was a different attitude from the whole team, from all the players in the third game," said Fazio.

"I think from the first minute, also knowing what the consequences of not winning were, the team was much more involved, courageous and together."

France have never beaten Argentina in a competitive match, the last of which came at the 1978 World Cup, but Les Bleus are one of the favourites for the title.

"France are a big opponent, with great players. We have respect for them but we feel very good," said Fazio. "I think after the win against Nigeria we feel much stronger and more confident.

"We know we have a great team, with great players and the confidence of a big team. We have to make the most of it."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should the Proteas pick Faf du Plessis for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the United States in June?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Faf still has a lot to give ...
67% - 959 votes
No! It's time to move on ...
33% - 466 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE