As France faces Uruguay in the final of the Under-20 World Cup, Kurt Zouma, the Franco-Central African defender, has the opportunity to contribute to the team’s potential historic victory and put the country’s name on the competition’s list for the first time. Despite being only three years old when France won the 1998 World Cup, Zouma now finds himself in a position to make his mark.
Zouma, who plays for AS Saint-Etienne, will be part of the defense alongside Mouhamadou Naby Sarr, who steps in for the suspended Samuel Umtiti. Speaking on the FIFA website, Zouma discussed his partnership with Sarr and the team’s determination to make history.
Reflecting on playing with Sarr, Zouma stated, “I already played with Naby against Turkey in the round of 16, so there is already a bit of a habit. But from the moment we reach the level of the France team, we must be able to adapt and play with anyone.” He acknowledged the need for communication and teamwork to compensate for any lack of automation, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in defense.
Zouma expressed the significance of the challenge they face, being aware that they represent France and have the support of the entire country. He said, “It’s nice to feel that we have the support of a country. We represent France, which is a great nation. We hope to win this final to be able to bring back this Cup. This responsibility means a lot to me because France has a great history in football.”
Despite being just three years old during the 1998 World Cup, Zouma watches it now and understands the historical significance. He concluded, “We know what it means to wear this jersey in a World Cup, and we want to do like them, to make history.” The young defender is keen on adding to France’s football legacy by securing victory in the Under-20 World Cup final.
