Hosts France take on Romania in the Euro 2016 opener on Friday. Karim Benzema’s absence from the European Championship could prove to be good news for France — and particularly for Olivier Giroud. In April, it was announced that Benzema would not play at Euro 2016 after his national federation ruled against his return. Often contested because of his erratic performances for club and country, Arsenal striker Giroud is expected to lead France’s attack in Friday’s Euro 2016 opener against Romania. Giroud scored twice in the next match, a 3-0 win against Scotland, and finally the fans applauded him off the pitch.

Source: Hindustan Times June 10, 2016 08:13 UTC