Spain vs France: Randal Kolo Muani urges Les Bleus to step up attacking game for Euro 2024 semi-final
France forward Randal Kolo Muani has warned that his side must raise their level in attack to have any chance of beating Spain and reaching the Euro 2024 final.
Like England, France have trudged their way to the last four in Germany. Didier Deschamps’ side needed penalties to see off Portugal on Friday and have so far managed just one penalty and two own goals.
Spain have been much easier on the eye and are considered by many as favourites to be crowned champions after they beat hosts Germany after extra time on Friday.
“It’s true that there’s a lack of presence in front of goal,” said Paris Saint-Germain frontman Kolo Muani.
“We don’t score many goals but we have the chances. It’s up to us to be more diligent - that will come.
“We played a 4-4-2 diamond formation [against Portugal]. The game before that, Antoine [Griezmann] was on the right. That surprises the opposition. We’re all capable of playing anywhere.
“The [tournament] top scorer has three goals; there are a lot of own goals. It’s not just us. We need to be less hasty in our final moves.
“The games are going to get tougher and tougher. We’re going to have to take the semi-final seriously. Spain are one of the best teams in the competition.”
Spain wingers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams will be a major threat in Munich on Tuesday night, but Kolo Muani insists that France do not fear them
“They’re very good players, but we have them too, so they don’t scare us,” he said.
Spain star Pedri has been ruled out for the rest of the tournament with a knee injury sustained by a challenge from Germany midfielder Toni Kroos on Friday.
Kroos was playing his last match before retiring and apologised publicly to Pedri.
“Thank you Toni Kroos for your message,” Pedri, 21, responded. “This is soccer and these things happen. Your career and your record remain forever.”
Spain will also be also without defenders Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand due to suspension. Jesus Navas and Nacho are expected to replace them.
“Unity is strength, and if we all keep pushing in the same direction, we can achieve our goals,” said Spain boss Luis de la Fuente.