Why is Theo Hernandez benched for France vs Sweden in FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash?
(Courtesy : Getty)
Theo Hernandez is on the Les Bleus bench for the France vs Sweden match tonight.
France took on Sweden in a highly anticipated Round of 32 clash in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on June 30. Les Bleus qualified as the Group I winners and will be heavy favourites against the Blagult, who qualified as the Group F runners-up.
Head coach Didier Deschamps named his strongest possible starting lineup for the European giants. A fearsome frontline of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, and Bradley Barcola represented a constant goal threat, while William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano were two of the best defenders across Europe.
However, despite the star-studded playing XI, some big names missed out, and one of them was left-back Theo Hernandez. In place of the Al-Nassr full-back, Deschamps opted to field Lucas Digne.
Why is Theo Hernandez not playing tonight?
Unlike the other positions where France boast some of the very best players on the planet, the left-back position is a bit of a weak link in Deschamps’ lineup. However, both Hernandez and Digne have performed ably when called upon, with both players alternating in the expanded 48-team World Cup in North America.
Hernandez played the entire 90 minutes in the opener against Senegal and the third match against Norway, and was solid in both games. Digne, on the other hand, played 90 minutes against Iraq and was also quite assured in his performance.
With little to differentiate between the two, Deschamps opted for the Aston Villa left-back because of his different profile. Hernandez relies on raw pace and physicality, which are his best skills. However, against Sweden, they will need to defend well against their fearsome wingers, especially Anthony Elanga.
Digne is a much more capable defender, while also being a superb crosser of the ball. Even though Les Bleus are not a team that rely excessively on headed chances, it will be another weapon in their armoury with Digne operating down the left.
Why is Theo Hernandez benched for France vs Sweden?
Didier Deschamps rested Hernandez and opted to start Lucas Digne instead, preferring his defensive solidity and crossing ability against Sweden’s dangerous wingers.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.