Striker: Karim Benzema

Benzema has the potential to be the tournament’s star striker. He has just scored 31 goals in La Liga, Spanish Cup and Champions League for Real Madrid and has earned impressive reviews in Spain.

Menace: Karim Benzema will test England

Also appreciated are the number of assists he now contributes. His link-up play in the warm-up games has been good, his movement slick. Benzema is a man in form. Nullifying the supply to him will be one of England’s tactics.

Verdict: Considering their unbeaten run and the sense of momentum gathered since the first half against Iceland in their opening warm-up game, there is still a wait-and-see feel to France. Good enough to beat England but not unbeatable.

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