Soccer Football - World Cup - Semi Final - France v Belgium - Saint Petersburg Stadium, Saint Petersburg, Russia - July 10, 2018 Belgium fans inside the stadium before the match REUTERS/Henry Romero
France face Belgium at the first game of 2018 World Cup semi-finals at Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg.
The French players are seeking a World Cup final return after a long time of absence as they last appeared at the World Cup final in 2006 when they lost to Italy while Belgium are searching for their first appearance at the final.
France manager, Didier Deschampsâs chosen line-up for the game consists of: Hugo Lloris; Lucas Hernandez, Samuel Umtiti, Raphael Varane, Benjamin Pavard; NâGolo Kante, Paul Pogba; Blaise Matuidi, Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappe; Olivier Giroud.
Belgium manager, Roberto Martinezâs chosen line-up for the game consists of: Thibaut Courtois; Jan Vertonghen, Vincent Kompany, Toby Alderweireld; Marouane Fellaini, Axel Witsel, Kevin De Bruyne, Nacer Chadli; Mousa DembĂ©lĂ©, Eden Hazard; Romelu Lukaku.
French legend, Thierry Henry, will face a tough experience as he will stand against his home at the game.
The former French striker has served as Belgium assistant coach since August 2016 and worked with the Belgian team at the World Cup qualifiers.
Henry, who won his debut with France when he was 20, hopes the game ends against the French for the first time in his life.
Thierry wore the jersey of âLes Bluesâ at 123 international games and was one of the key players in the French Golden Generation who clinched the 1998 World Cup title at home and UEFA EURO 2000 hosted by Belgium and Netherlands.
The game starts at 8 p.m.
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