Match Review: France v. Peru

France v Peru
Score: 1-0
Goal: Mbappe 34'
Possession: 44-56
Shots: 12-10
Man of the match: Kylian Mbappe (G)

France confirmed progression to the knockout stage as they eliminated Peru 1-0. The match started off in the hands of the French, as they controlled the majority of the first half. They were able to Mbappe and Griezmann involved which helped them create a couple opportunities in the first half. The first chance of the match fell to Basque forward and Antoine Griezmann who fired his strike right at the keeper. This was a theme throughout the first half as many of France's chances ended up in the keeper's hands comfortably. Another chance for France was created later on in the first half when the ball fell to Pogba who smashed a shot from distance that went just past the far post. Then finally France got their first. Giroud was played in on the left hand side and his strike was well saved. Unfortunately, the ball deflected perfectly into the path of Kylian Mbappe who easily slotted home into the open net. This lead us into half time with France in control. Though coming out in the second-half France seemed to switch their tactics and decided to sit back. This made things dangerous for France. Peru pushed forward and created a couple of decent opportunities. Their best tho fell to midfielder Pedro Aquino who smashed a long-range effort off the bar/post. It was an absolute cracker and would've been up there for goal of the tournament, but unfortunately for the Peruvians, it bounced out. Although Peru continued to push forward, they didn't create much of notice but did show flaws in the France team that could be exploited coming into the knockout rounds. For France, they are through but haven't looked very convincing and will need to improve when they come against the big dogs. For Peru, it is a cruel end to a World cup that they seemingly should have 2 points in but unfortunately will be exiting in the group stage.