In the race for the World Cup, few members of the French starting eleven had more to lose than Marcus Thuram, who faced Colombia on Sunday (3-1). The forward, who was a key player for the team in Qatar four years ago before becoming a regular in recent seasons, does not have the guarantee of making it to the World Cup next year at 28 years old.
Lacking efficiency and injured last fall – suffering a hamstring injury in his right leg – Thuram has slipped down Didier Deschamps’ hierarchy. Pushed to the bench by the emergence of Hugo Ekitike, he has also struggled to find his form with Inter Milan, despite their top position in Serie A. Since the beginning of January, he has only scored once, on February 8 against Sassuolo.
A poor record for “Tikus”, who has faced criticism in the Italian press. Playing at the top of the 4-2-3-1 formation by “DD”, three days after a successful offensive performance by his teammates against Brazil (2-1), Thuram knew he was under scrutiny. Although his performance was not flawless, he appeared particularly nervous during a large part of the first half. Adversely challenged by tough Colombian defenders, he committed several fouls (4 in total), resulting in a deserved yellow card for a late tackle on Luis Diaz (39th). Earlier, he clashed with Davinson Sanchez, requiring referee Victor Rivas to intervene.
“I hope I have helped the team, it feels good”
But just two minutes after his warning, everything changed. Thuram scored with a header to double the lead, thanks to a precise left-footed cross from Maghnes Akliouche (41st). It was only his 3rd goal in 33 appearances for the national team, the first one since nearly two and a half years ago, during a match against Gibraltar (14-0).
Liberated, he then showcased a skillful dribble on the left, followed by a dangerous but off-target shot (43rd). Most notably, he provided a brilliant assist with his back to goal for Désiré Doué, perfectly positioned for the third French goal (56th). “I hope I have helped the team, it feels good,” he calmly reacted to the broadcaster. The question remains whether he has definitively convinced his coach.
