Adil Rami missed France’s 5-2 win over Iceland in the quarterfinals of Euro 2016 because of a yellow-card suspension and he might miss the semifinal, too.
French newspaper L’Equipe is reporting rising star center back Samuel Umtiti, who replaced Rami against Iceland, will remain in France’ starting XI for Thursday’s semifinal clash against Germany at the Stade Velodrome.
Umtiti’s 75 passes completed in the quarterfinal were the most without a miss by a debutante in tournament history since 1980.
It’s a pretty simple decision for French manager Didier Deschamps. Umtiti has more pace, better awareness and makes smarter decisions than Rami. Rami is better in the air and has more strength, but it would be foolish to not give Umtiti another chance, especially against a highly skilled group of Germany forwards and midfielders.
Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET.
Click to see our live coverage of Germany-France >>
Click to read our Euro 2016 semifinal previews, predictions >>
Thumbnail photo via Tim Groothuis/Witters Sport via USA TODAY Sports Images
