(Football news) Defending champions France have been hit with an injury crisis in this tournament. Paul Pogba and N'Golo Kante who were the midfield duo in the last World Cup are both injured. Presnel Kimpembe was also injured but Didier Deschamps still selected him in the squad. After a couple of days it was confirmed that he will not be able to gain fitness and was hence replaced by Axel Disasi. Christopher Nkunku was injured in training after a clash with Eduardo Camavinga and was replaced by Randal Kolo Muani. Karim Benzema was the latest one to be ruled out but Raphael Varane is fit and available. The real surprise is that Deschamps has not called up a replacement for him. 

Selecting a Playing XI and choosing the right system is going to be a big challenge. France have been playing a 3 at the back system for a while but according to reports Deschamps is likely to switch to a 4 at the back. Players such as Hugo Lloris, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele are definitely going to play while the others could be a surprise. If the reports are to be believed than France could line-up in a 4-2-3-1 or a 4-3-3. Despite the injury absences France is still a pretty strong side and shouldn't be taken lightly. Mbappe will now be leading the French attack and a lot will depend on him.

In the last World Cup as well Australia and France had played the opening game. On that occasion France won a really tight game due to an own goal in the 81st minute. This time around the Australian's will be hoping to go one step further and cause a massive upset. The Socceroos narrowly defeated Peru on penalties to book their tickets to Qatar. Realistically they will be hoping to secure a first place finish above Denmark as it is unlikely for France to not finish first. This match will set the tone for both the teams.

Also read: Wales and USA showcase their quality in exciting 1-1 draw