Live coverage of the Group C clash from the Stade de France in St Denis (kick-off at 8pm). This is the host nation's second match of the finals and a game they are expected to win with some ease, with the overall odds against the Saudis very long indeed.

Many of Aime Jacquet's strong squad play their domestic football outside
France - several of them in Italy. Defender Marcel Desailly is with AC Milan, as is midfielder Ibrahim Ba, while Youri Djorkaeff plays for Uefa Cup-winners Inter Milan. Christian Karembeu also enjoyed a good season in European competition, having been part of the Real Madrid side that won the European Cup last month.

In contrast the Saudi side is based at home but a good tournament could attract the attention of European managers. One player keen to try his luck in Europe is leading striker Sami Al-Jaber, who averaged nearly a goal every two games at international level and is seen by many as the best forward in Asia. Striker Saeed Al-Owairan will be hoping to re-create the form that helped to take the Saudis to the second round in USA 94, although his recent and lengthy suspension could be to his detriment.

France and Saudi Arabia have never met before and, although the outcome seems to be a foregone conclusion, the home team should bear in mind their opponents' strong showing in America - not to mention the fact that coach Carlos Alberto
Parreira is leading his fourth team to the finals, a remarkable feat that has been achieved only by one other coach.

Introduced by Desmond Lynam with Alan Hansen and David Ginola, with commentary by John Motson and Chris Waddle.

Plus brief highlights of the Group C game between South Africa and Denmark played this afternoon.