We can stop Messi– Deschamps

France have a number of options to limit Lionel Messi’s influence in their round of 16 clash against Argentina coach Didier Deschamps has revealed.

However, the French coach also resigned that he could turn the match in an instant.

Messi has yet to light up the World Cup in a stuttering Argentina side.

But his clinical strike in the 2-1 win over Nigeria underlined the danger the Barcelona forward will present Deschamp’s side at the Kazan Arena on Saturday.

“Messi is Messi, look at his statistics, 65 goals in 127 matches,” Deschamps told reporters at the stadium.

“It’s straightforward, hopefully we would like to neutralise him, but we know very well he can make the difference with very little.

“When you play Argentina and Messi on the pitch there are several solutions to limit his impact.”

France will look to boss the midfield in a bid to limit supply to the lethal 31-year-old, who has struggled to impose himself in the tournament.

He will also hope their defence can continue to hold firm after conceding only one goal in the group phase.

Deschamps said full back Benjamin Mendy had been ruled out with a “small muscle injury”.

The Manchester City defender returned as a second half substitute in the 0-0 draw against Denmark after missing the opening games against Australia and France.