After topping group F, the so-called 'Group of death' without losing a game, the French national team now head into the crucial knockout stages UEFA EURO 2020. The Equipe Tricolore face Switzerland in the round of 16 in Bucharest on Monday evening (21:00 CEST). The world champions' head coach Didier Deschamps revealed at the pre-match press conference on Sunday evening that he's hopeful that FC Bayern defender Lucas Hernández, who's been struggling recently, will be available to play.
Hernández has made two starts so far, forcing Mats Hummels' crucial own goal in France's 1-0 win over Germany. The three other Bayern players in the French squad will also be available against Switzerland. Benjamin Pavard was rested in the final group match against Portugal. Corentin Tolisso was given his first start against the Portuguese, while Kingsley Coman came off the bench in the second half for his first appearance at EURO 2020.
French cautious despite being favourites
The French have plenty of respect for their round of 16 opponents despite being favourites. "They're a complete team. It won't be easy," Deschamps cautioned his players. All the more important that he'll probably also be able to call on the qualities of a battler like Lucas Hernández.
Bayern's Thomas Müller is ready for Germany's crucial Wembley showdown:
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