France U23 vs USA U23 predictions ahead of this clash at the 2024 Olympic football tournament. France and the USA face off in Group A, starting their Paris 2024 Olympics men’s football campaigns on Wednesday. Read on for our free betting tips and predictions.
Olympic Games Men’s Football | Jul 24, 2024 at 8pm UK at Stade Velodrome
France U23 vs USA U23 Predictions
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Can France Under-23s Overcome the USA in Their Olympic Opener?
Key Stats
– France have seen both teams score in four of their last five matches.
– Lacazette scored in 13 of his last 18 Ligue 1 games.
– The USA ended a 16-year absence from the men’s Olympic football tournament.
The Paris 2024 Olympics Men’s Football Tournament kicks off on Wednesday with a highly anticipated match between France and the USA. The Group A encounter at the Orange Velodrome in Marseille is set to be a battle for supremacy, with both teams looking to make a strong start. Alongside France and the USA, Guinea and New Zealand will also aim to disrupt the favourites and make their mark in the competition.
A Look Back at France’s Olympic History
France’s history in the Olympic Men’s Football Tournament has been a tale of highs and lows. Their crowning achievement came in 1984 when they stormed to their first and only gold medal. However, the years that followed were marked by a significant absence, as France failed to qualify for the 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016 editions.
Their return to the Olympics at the delayed Tokyo 2020 Games was less than memorable, with defeats to Mexico and Japan leading to an early exit. This time around, with the tournament hosted on home soil, France, under the guidance of Thierry Henry, aim to rectify past failures and are among the favourites for a podium finish.
The USA’s Olympic Aspirations
The USA have not been a dominant force in men’s Olympic football, with their best result being a silver medal all the way back in 1904. After a 16-year absence from the tournament, they qualified for Paris 2024 by winning the CONCACAF U-20 Championship in 2022. Managed by Marko Mitrovic, the USA enter the competition with a point to prove, especially after their senior team’s disappointing Copa America campaign. Their preparation has been a mixed bag, with a loss to Japan followed by a win over Paraguay, showcasing their potential but also highlighting areas of inconsistency.
Expected Lineups and Tactical Setups
France’s Probable Starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Restes
- Defenders: Sildillia, Lukeba, Bade, Truffert
- Midfielders: Millot, Kone, Chotard
- Forwards: Olise, Mateta, Lacazette
France’s lineup is stacked with talent, blending youth and experience. Alexandre Lacazette, one of the overage players, brings a wealth of experience and goal-scoring ability. Michael Olise, recently signed by Bayern Munich, will provide creativity just behind the strikers, while Manu Kone of Borussia Monchengladbach adds stability to the midfield. Defensively, Castello Lukeba is one to watch, and young goalkeeper Guillaume Restes will aim to impress on the big stage.
USA’s Probable Starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Schulte
- Defenders: Harriel, Robinson, Zimmerman, Wiley
- Midfielders: McGlynn, Tessmann
- Forwards: Booth, Aaronson, Paredes, McGuire
The USA’s lineup is less star-studded but features promising talents. The defensive pairing of Walker Zimmerman and Miles Robinson will be crucial in containing France’s attack. Paxten Aaronson, brother of senior international Brenden Aaronson, will look to dictate play from the number 10 role. The battle between Schulte and Chelsea’s Gabriel Slonina for the goalkeeper spot adds another layer of intrigue.
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield battle will be a crucial area where the match could be decided. Manu Kone’s ability to break up play and distribute effectively will be vital for France, while McGlynn and Tessmann will need to assert themselves to give the USA a foothold in the game. The duel between France’s Alexandre Lacazette and USA’s defensive duo of Robinson and Zimmerman will also be pivotal. Lacazette’s experience and goal-scoring prowess could be decisive if he gets the better of the American defenders.
Gameplay Predictions
France are likely to dominate possession, leveraging their technically superior midfield to control the game’s tempo. Thierry Henry’s side will focus on intricate passing and creating goal-scoring opportunities through their dynamic front three. However, France’s defensive vulnerabilities, as seen in their recent matches, could be exposed by the USA’s counter-attacking threats.
The USA, on the other hand, will aim to stay compact defensively and exploit any spaces left by France’s attacking play. With speed on the flanks from Paredes and Booth, the Americans could pose a significant threat on the break. Their success will largely depend on how well they can transition from defence to attack and the effectiveness of their counter-attacks.
Strengths and Weaknesses
France’s Strengths:
- Attacking Firepower: With players like Lacazette and Olise, France have the capability to score from various positions.
- Technical Proficiency: The squad is filled with players who are comfortable on the ball and can maintain possession.
- Managerial Experience: Thierry Henry’s knowledge and experience as a player and coach at the highest level are invaluable.
France’s Weaknesses:
- Defensive Concerns: Recent performances have highlighted potential issues at the back, with the team conceding goals too easily.
- Pressure of Expectations: Playing on home soil, the pressure to perform could weigh heavily on the players.
USA’s Strengths:
- Counter-Attacking Ability: The USA have the pace and tactical setup to exploit spaces on the counter.
- Defensive Solidity: The inclusion of experienced defenders like Zimmerman and Robinson could provide a stable backbone.
- Underdog Spirit: With less pressure compared to France, the USA can play with a sense of freedom.
USA’s Weaknesses:
- Lack of Experience: The squad, while talented, lacks the big-game experience that some of their French counterparts possess.
- Inconsistency: Their preparation matches have shown a tendency for fluctuating performances.
Managerial Critique
Thierry Henry’s lack of extensive managerial experience at this level could be a concern. While he has a wealth of knowledge as a former player, translating that into effective management, especially under the intense pressure of the Olympics, is a different challenge. His tactical decisions and ability to motivate the team will be under scrutiny.
Marko Mitrovic, leading the USA, brings a fresh perspective but faces the challenge of galvanising a relatively inexperienced squad. His tactical flexibility and ability to inspire his players will be critical if the USA are to progress beyond the group stages.
Expected Goals and Betting Angles
France’s attacking lineup suggests a high expected goals (xG) average, driven by their ability to create numerous chances through sustained pressure. The USA, while less likely to dominate possession, have shown efficiency in taking their opportunities, particularly on the counter.
Potential Betting Angles:
- Both Teams to Score: Given France’s defensive vulnerabilities and the USA’s counter-attacking threat, this market holds promise.
- Over 2.5 Goals: The attacking talent on display suggests a high-scoring encounter.
- First Half Goals: France’s tendency to start strong could see early goals.
Predictions
Best Bet: France to Win and Both Teams to Score Given their superior talent and home advantage, France are expected to secure a victory. However, their defensive weaknesses mean the USA could also find the net, making this a well-rounded bet.
Correct Score Prediction: France 3-1 USA Aligning with the best bet, a 3-1 scoreline reflects France’s attacking prowess and the likelihood of the USA scoring on the counter.
Goalscorer Prediction: Alexandre Lacazette to Score Lacazette’s goal-scoring record and experience make him a prime candidate to find the net in this match. His movement and finishing ability will be crucial for France.
First Team to Score: France With their tendency to start matches strongly and dominate possession early on, France are likely to score the opening goal.
Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target – France Over 5.5 Considering France’s attacking lineup and their ability to create chances, they are likely to register a high number of shots on target. This market offers good value given their offensive potential.ould pose a significant threat on the break. Their challenge will be maintaining defensive discipline and avoiding the lapses that have seen them lose three of their last five games.
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