England v France - Key battles March 25 2008
Fabio Capello has been presented with an unenviable task for his second match in charge of England, travelling to Paris to face a decorated France.
A 2-1 win over Switzerland handed the former Real Madrid and AC Milan coach a win at the first attempt, but a match against one of Europe's heavy hitters should give him a better idea of the players he has inherited.
We assess three contests which could determine the result.
JOHN TERRY v NICOLAS ANELKA
Chelsea captain Terry will be eager to make himself a cornerstone of the Italian's and will see the match against Les Bleus as an ideal stage to set out his credentials as an on-field leader.
France have no shortage of attacking flair to challenge him, and his sternest test could come from his new club colleague Anelka.
Both men will know each other's games from training. While Terry will seek to dominate physically in the box, Anelka - whose international career has not always followed the smoothest trajectory - holds the cards in terms of pace.
STEVEN GERRARD v LASSANA DIARRA
Although perhaps cowed somewhat by Liverpool's 3-0 defeat against Manchester United, Gerrard has been on largely inspirational form in recent months.
It will be interesting to see if Capello responds by handing Gerrard more attacking responsibilities in an England shirt. If he does, he will probably have to battle for territory with Portsmouth's all-action midfielder Diarra.
Despite being highly-rated in France. he played only supporting roles at Chelsea and Arsenal but is benefiting from enjoying a starring role on the south coast.
WAYNE ROONEY v WILLIAM GALLAS
While England fans will be hoping for a change of ethos from the dismal Steve McClaren era, few would argue that Manchester United star Rooney should form the fulcrum of Capello's front line.
Whether part of a front two or an attacking trio, the mercurial 22-year-old remains the player most likely to get the better of the world's best.
One of his finest performances for his country came against France in Euro 2004, and Arsenal captain Gallas will be the man charged with preventing a repeat showing.
As one of the best centre-halves in the Premier League, Gallas is used to winning his personal duels - but Rooney presents a unique challenge.