Are France destined for another World Cup final?

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Just how good are the 2018 winners?

France look increasingly like a side that will take something extraordinary to prevent them reaching a third consecutive World Cup final.

Author | Jack L

Les Bleus have negotiated a two-hour storm delay in Philadelphia, Didier Deschamps' absence for one match after he returned to France following the death of his mother, and Paraguay's disruptive tactics to book their place in the last eight.

They have been one of the outstanding teams of the tournament, none more so than in their last 32 victory over Sweden, when they produced 25 attempts on goal. The ominous prospect for the rest of the field is that they still appear capable of raising their level even further.

It is not simply about Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele, who have combined for 20 goal involvements. France have not trailed at any stage of the competition.

They have conceded only twice in five matches, once after opening up a 3-0 lead against Senegal and again when 2-0 ahead against Norway. Arsenal's William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano, Olise's Bayern Munich team-mate, have provided the foundation with a commanding presence in defence.

So who can stop France? If they overcome Morocco, a semi-final against either Spain or Belgium awaits. Spain, who have yet to concede in the tournament, would represent their sternest examination yet.

Paraguay made France work relentlessly before they eventually found the breakthrough, but Deschamps' side possess attacking quality that few teams can live with. Their remarkable strength in depth, particularly from the bench, could prove decisive as the tournament reaches its climax.

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