There is no doubt that Russia 2018 is living up to all expectations, what with all the twists, turns and the other extras. The final matches at the group stage have begun with some teams having already dropped out of the tournament after only two matches. Teams like Peru, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Panama, Tunisia, Morocco, Iran and some others are already preparing to fly back home.
The final matches in group C take place today. Of particular interest will be the match between France and Denmark to decide who tops the group.
Not unexpectedly, the managers of both teams have been busy playing mind games in addition to getting their teams ready.
What is certain is that the French will be fired up for this one especially because of the criticism from Denmark coach Age Hareide. It is clear to see that the boys from France would want to prove a point. Sometime in May this year, Hareide told a Danish newspaper that the French were 'nothing special' and lacked leadership in the team. He also mocked Paul Pogba's hairstyles.
From all indications, the French appear to be aware of the comments from Hareide and they have since been simmering. France coach Didier Deschamps said : 'My players can read. They can listen. They know very well what the coach said.'
Deschamps was then asked if the comments added salt to spice up the game at Luzhniki Stadium. The coach replied : 'Salt, pepper, vinegar, whatever you wish.'
We may therefore be in for a cracker.
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