An idiots guide to England Vs France

The game kicks off in 3 hours, do you need to blag your way into knowing what the hell they're talking about? I do.



Kick off: 5pm
At Donbass Arena, Donetsk
Competetion:  2012 UEFA European Football Championship
Group D


Past History 

Last win 1997

Last draw 2000

3 defeats on the trot

Total wins in past 60 years 6

Total losses in past 60 years 6

Total draws in past 60 years 4

England

Formation 4-4-1-1

France


4-3-3

4-4-1-1 

Stronger defence puts pressure on centre forward and second striker as they have to make chances, the midfield and defenders are more close-nit, this makes the opposing team's job harder as there are a lot of men to mark. Requires very skilled centre forward striker.

4-3-3 

 Attacking, strong midfielders and strong attackers, requires specialists to start like this most move into it during play. Ball can be put up the pitch quicker, as there's more movement in attacking. Good to play wide and go down the wing.

Although France may choose 4-2-3-1

Not defensive but not overly attacking, relies on the midfield to "screen" for defense, so to not allow people past them, AND to initiate attacks from rear midfield, so starting to attack from right down frances end.

Provides a very wide spray of members and France defeated Brazil with this formation in 2006.

Requires very good wingmen. It requires the right back and left back to attack and needs a strong sense of purpose. A flexible formation, providing everyone knows what they are doing.

Important notes

French Manager (Laurent) Blanc has a 21 unbeaten current run, making this game his 22nd consecutive win.


(Roy) Hodgson is note favoured by the England mass fans. 


Four England team members are injured, this team might not be the one Hodgeson would have chosen, probably aren't.


Wayne Rooney is missing due to being suspended from a red card, first of 2 game suspension.


France (sometimes called Les Bleus, the blues) need to prove themselves after doing poorly in the world cup 2 years ago. This was under a different Manager.


In 2004, France won 2-1 despite being behind at 90 minutes.


If Theo Wallcot plays on the wide midfield positions, that would suggest an attacking intensive. However Downing is more likely as he is more defensive and a draw would be considered a positive result as France are favourites to win. 




 Patrick Avra and Phillippe Mexes have failed to impress recently, this would make the left back weak and a good place for England to attack, however this requires they pass Nasri a skilled player.


Both teams will accept a draw  over a loss for either club could dash their chances entirely, some very defensive play.


The Main three for France are Nasri, Benzema and Ribery.  England lacks star strikers/players such as this.


Welbeck can score but pretty one trick poneyish


France plays a narrow game, England could win in the wings.


England is not flexible, if France start with a goal or pushing England back that could be the end of the first half.


France also have superior possession tactics as just like Arsenal they play a beautiful passing game.


If England lose to France, they will probably have to beat Ukraine and Sweden to be considered a runner up, this is unlikely.


Only the runner up and the winner of the group goes into the next round.


Wayne Rooney was red carded in England v Montenegro, it was a fairly obvious foul but not necessarily malicious.