Argentina train before World Cup clash with France

Bronnitsy (Russia): Argentina practiced at the national team's training camp in the Russian town of Bronnitsy on Thursday, two days ahead of their FIFA World Cup second-round game against France. Head coach Jorge Sampaoli led the session with 22 available players, while midfielder Enzo Perez, who started in Argentina's previous two group matches against Croatia and Nigeria, worked out in the gym due to a hip injury, reports Efe. In its Group D clashes, Argentina tied 1-1 with Iceland, lost 3-0 to Croatia and won 2-1 over Nigeria. Argentina are to take on France on Saturday, the opening day of the knockout round, at Kazan Arena. Perez has not been ruled out for that clash.

Argentina, France hope to reach potential in World Cup clash

Kazan: France and Argentina took different paths to the knockout stage but have much in common at this World Cup. Both teams are filled with big-name players, both like to play an entertaining style and both have failed to impress so far.

Forty years after their last meeting at soccer's biggest tournament, the former champions meet on Saturday in Kazan for a spot in the quarter-finals, needing their best players to come to the fore. With its armada of star players, France qualified unbeaten from its group but has yet to find the right rhythm. In three matches, coach Didier Deschamps' team has lacked ambition and intensity. The poor form of striker Antoine Griezmann has been a concern. Argentina had a shakier path to the knockout stage and coach Jorge Sampaoli has been heavily slammed.