In their final warm-up friendly before Euro 2024 favorites, France were held to a 0-0 draw by Canada on Sunday, although late substitute Kylian Mbappé almost stole the win.
With the superstar striker nursing an injury, France coach Didier Deschamps experimented with his attack.
With Olivier Giroud in a classic central role flanked by Marcus Thuram and Ousmane Dembélé, the coach withdrew Antoine Griezmann to a support role.
But France struggled with a motivated Canada, which had lost 4-0 to the Netherlands in their last game.
Giroud was provided with rare service before fluffing a 55th-minute sitter delivered by Griezmann and missing another good chance moments afterwards.
Mbappé came on with 20 minutes to go after missing full training the past two days.
France beat Luxembourg 3-0 in a friendly on Wednesday, with Mbappé on the score sheet and picking up a knock.
But on Sunday, Mbappé produced a flash of brilliance and almost stole the win, showing he’ll be needed for France’s Euro opener on June 17 in Düsseldorf against Austria.
In a tournament that starts in Germany next Friday, France is in Group D with the Netherlands, Poland, and Austria.
With AFP
