Olivier Giroud would have no qualms about finishing Russia 2018 without a goal to his name if France finish by lifting the World Cup. Didier Deschamps’ side take on Belgium in Tuesday’s St Petersburg semi-final – a game that will be graced by a raft of prime attacking and creative talents on both sides. Chelsea striker Giroud began the tournament as a substitute but was introduced for Les Bleus’ 1-0 win over Peru in their second match.
His robust presence at centre-forward has helped to unleash the lavish gifts of Antoine Griezmann and Kylian Mbappe – most notably when the latter tore Argentina apart with a virtuoso display. Goals have proved elusive for a player whose place in the France line-up has long been a source of national debate in his homeland but two more wins are all that count for 31-year-old.
#Kazan, 06/07/2018.
And then, the magic happened ! 😍#REDTOGETHER 🇧🇪#WorldCup 🏆#BRABEL
🔜 #FRABEL pic.twitter.com/MOjH6N6LeU— Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils) July 7, 2018
“If I didn’t score all tournament but we won the World Cup, of course I would take that in a heartbeat,” Giroud told a news conference.
“I am motivated to speak with the youngest in the squad. I try and force myself to speak up. I really want my thirst for victory to come across to them.”
Belgium’s forwards are receiving similarly sage words from France great Thierry Henry, who is a key member of Roberto Martinez’s backroom team.