France and Denmark Dawdle, Draw, and Advance

Sure, securing top spot was the prize for winning this match, but that was about it.

The only variable remaining for Group C's bracket qualifiers would be who got Argentina and who got Croatia in the Round of 16.

Not much difference in choices, really.

So, once France and Denmark saw Peru was putting paid to Australia, they basically spent the match just dicking around, trying to avoid injuries and bookings.

 

There were the odd moments of positive action, but in France's case, they came without Kylian Mbappé, Paul Pogba, and Hugo Lloris. Dudes had the day off.

For the most part, so did the ball.

Give a few players credit, though. Some of them had to work to make highlights outta nothing.

 

Yowza.

The second half wasn't very different from the first.

Denmark worked up a sweat a couple of times, mostly due to Christian Eriksen, who fashioned a decent attempt in the 54th minute:

 

For the record, it was Denmark's first of the half, which matched their total for the first 45.

As to Les Bleus, their second 45 highlights would've never been considered for any of this World Cup's prior games:

 

The inevitable final: 0-0.

 

 

They're also going into the Round of 16.

Based on their performance in the group stage, the Danes' stay in the bracket will likely be short. France, too, needs to find a higher gear.

At least, they have the capability. And they're definitely rested.