France's Mendy ruled out of Argentina clash

Head coach Didier Deschamps confirmed Friday that defender Benjamin Mendy won't be available for France's round of 16 encounter with Argentina because of a muscle injury, according to Jonathan Johnson of ESPN FC.

Mendy was named to France's 23-man squad ahead of the World Cup despite spending a majority of the 2017-18 campaign on the sidelines with a serious knee injury.

He made one appearance as a substitute during France's final group stage match against Denmark.

Deschamps did not reveal where Mendy's "muscle problem" is, but French outlet L'Equipe reports that the Manchester City left-back felt discomfort in his thigh and that he could be available later in the tournament if France reaches the quarter-finals.

Meanwhile, Lucas Hernandez is expected to resume his role as France's starting left-back during Saturday's match after overcoming a thigh issue.