NZONZI STANDS OUT IN SOLID 90 MINUTES IN 2-0 FRANCE WIN

Steven Nzoni played 90 minutes for France this Monday night in a friendly against Russia, starting his preparation for the Russia World Cup. Didier Deschamps lined up with a team full of rotations, though it was clear that Nzonzi made a clear statement on his intentions to feature prominently in this summer's tournament.

With simple football and barely losing the ball over the course of 90 minutes, the centre-mid played in a part of a midfield three, which saw him accompanied by Matuidi and Tolisso - though the latter would eventually give way to Paul Pogba. The game was decided with goals from Giroud and Fekir.

France's next test will be this Friday at 21:00 CET against the surprise absentee of the World Cup - Italy.