Kenny Cunningham was on the line to speak to Joe Molloy tonight about the World Cup semi final tonight between France and Belgium which saw Les Bleus progress to the final with a 1-0 win. He gave his view on both teams' performances as well as England’s chances.
"I’m enjoying it. Two reasonably evenly matched sides. They functioned quite well Belgium in the first 20 minutes. France really dropped off and as the first half progressed, they grew into the game," he said.
"Belgium have been impressive but there’s just something about France, defensively very solid. Varane I love, I think he’s the best centre half in the world. Umtiti has a mistake in him.
"It’s about the whole team in terms of the balance , I like what Deschamps is doing. I think they’re playing within themselves."
After speaking about the game tonight, Kenny then went on to discuss tomorrow’s second semi-final between England and Croatia. Here’s what he had to say.
"Are England gonna win the World Cup? No. I think France will win it. I do fancy England to beat Croatia. I’ve just fancied their chances. they’re the best team left at that side of the group. As strong as Croatia are, I don’t think Croatia have been at their best," he said
"If England can put it together I think they could have too much for Croatia. They’ve been playing so well, growing in confidence, they all understand their roles in the team. I’d be very surprised if he changes it tomorrow night.
"Harry Maguire’s been outstanding. If Croatia can ask England a few questions then they can creek a bit. You have to give Southgate credit. It’s been impressive but it hasn’t been perfect. I still think there’s more to come from them.
"Croatia the last couple of games, they haven’t been at it. Perisic has disappointed me, Mandzukic looks like he’s out on his legs."
