France predicted XI v New Zealand: Alexandre Lacazette and Jean-Philippe Mateta among 8 players to be rested | OneFootball

France head into their final group-stage game of the Olympics with progression to the quarter-finals of the tournament almost assured. Thierry Henry is therefore expected to rotate his side considerably against New Zealand on Tuesday evening.

After victories against the USA (3-0) and then Guinea (1-0), Les Bleus will only be kicked out if they lose by three or more goals against New Zealand and if the USA beat Guinea by the same margin. It is an unlikely scenario. Confident that France will progress, despite their result, Henry is set to rest much of his squad.

Captain Alexandre Lacazette is one of those expected to be rested, whilst Jean-Philippe Mateta, with whom he has led the line, will also drop to the bench. In all, L’Équipe understands that eight changes may be made to the side that beat Guinea.

France likely lineup v New Zealand

Guillaume Restes; Bradley Locko, Castello Lukeba, Soungoutou Magassa, Chrislain Matsima; Andy Diouf, Johann Lepenant, Maghnes Akliouche; Rayan Cherki; Arnaud Kalimuendo, Désiré Doué. (L’Éq)

GFFN | Luke Entwistle