Deschamps has prepared a surprise for Iraq

Roosters are exceptional candidates for the title

France are set to face Iraq in the second round of the World Cup group stage next Tuesday, with coach Didier Deschamps expected to make slight changes to the starting line-up that beat Senegal 3-1 in the opening round.

According to reports published by French outlet L’Equipe, Deschamps will not make radical changes to the squad, but is considering starting Bradley Barkola in place of Desiree Douy in attack after the former’s remarkable performance as a substitute against Senegal.

Former Lyon man Barcola scored France’s second goal after coming on as an 87th-minute substitute for Ousmane Dembele, and added quality within minutes of the game to set up Dua, who had faltered after an active start before making way for Ryan Cherky.

While Barcola’s style as a penetrator may not at first glance seem the best fit for an Iraqi defence, which is expected to be compact, the coaching staff believe he has different characteristics from the rest of the forwards, whose movements were sometimes matched against Senegal.

On the other hand, the French media confirmed that Ousmane Dembele will keep his place in the starting line-up despite his disappointing performance against Senegal, as the technical staff were not happy with his level, but this does not threaten his position as one of the main pillars of the team.

France are looking for a win over Iraq to secure early qualification for the second round and put themselves in a strong position to top the group, which would spare them the rest of the tournament in Mexico or the long trip to the United States.

Notably, the Roosters opened their World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 3-1 win over Senegal last Tuesday, a game that saw defensive woes and attacking interference that Deschamps is looking to address ahead of their next clash.

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