Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema will be pivotal to France’s chances. Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images.
France striker Karim Benzema AVAILABLE for World Cup final due to stunning loophole
Ballon d’Or holder Karim Benzema is available for Sunday’s World Cup final due to a STUNNING loophole. Will we see the 34-year-old Frenchman?
Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema will be pivotal to France’s chances. Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images.
Ballon d’Or holder Karim Benzema might just make a shock appearance in Sunday’s World Cup final.
World Cup 2018 throwback: France 4-3 Argentina
Benzema could feature in World Cup final due to loophole
The Real Madrid superstar was ruled out of the World Cup just before it started with an injury to his left thigh. However, he could return to the fold having not kicked a ball in Qatar due to an incredible loophole.
Kylian Mbappé: Five stats that define a great
A three-week timeline was set for Benzema to return to fitness. Spanish outlet Marca state that he has returned on time and has been training without any issue since Saturday. He could make a return to the group if coach Deschamps calls upon the 34-year-old, because he was never replaced in the squad.
World Cup final: When does Argentina vs France kick off?
Giroud is the main man for now
Currently, Olivier Giroud leads the line for Les Bleus and has been in fine form during the World Cup, scoring four goals, including the winner against England in the quarterfinals. Benzema bagged a staggering 44 goals across all competitions last season and he also won the Champions League, meaning that he won the Ballon d’Or by a landslide. Giroud will definitely start on Sunday, but a Benzema bench appearance can’t be ruled out.
Karim Benzema and Didier Deschamps speak
Deschamps played down suggestions Benzema could return when quizzed on the matter during the groups:
“It’s not something I’m thinking about now. I spoke to Benzema after he left the training camp.
“I leave it to you if you want to have a debate about it. The thought hasn’t crossed my mind.”
Deschamps was quizzed on the matter once again after his side qualified for the final but was coy in his response:
“I don’t really want to answer that question, sorry,” he told journalists.
Will Benzema make a shock appearance for France vs Argentina in Sunday’s World Cup final? It’s an intriguing option for the France boss.
ICYMI: Argentina 3-0 Croatia: Record-breaking Lionel Messi sends Argentina to Sunday’s World Cup final
Meanwhile, you can get more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game from James Freemantle
Also keep up on daily football trivia via football stats nerd foodball_za.
