French hopes of retaining their world crown could dissolve on Thursday when they take on Uruguay in a Group A match neither side can afford to lose.

Since they stumbled 1-0 to Senegal in one of the biggest shocks in the tournament's history, the champions have been licking both their physical and psychological wounds.

Uruguay, who were the last of the 32 finalists to qualify, also lost their first game, 2-1 to Denmark, and will be desperate to avoid an early return home to Montevideo.

Many question marks still hang over France but one has almost become an obsession -- the condition of injured playmaker Zinedine Zidane.

Coach Roger Lemerre said Wednesday he had not yet decided whether to start Zidane in Thursday's crunch game.

"There has been no decision," Lemerre told a news conference. "It

"If he really wants to play, he will overcome his injury," Lemerre added.

The inspirational midfielder missed the opening match with a torn thigh muscle and is doubtful to face the Uruguayans.

The world's most expensive player has since adopted an aloof stance, increasing speculation about his fitness.

Zidane has declined to appear publicly since joining his teammates in the Japanese coastal city of Ibusuki two weeks ago.

But he was quoted in Spanish sports daily Marca earlier this week saying he would not take any risks and would not try an untimely comeback.

"We can't afford another slip," coach Roger Lemerre said. "Even a draw will not be acceptable. We have two matches to play and we must win both of them.

"But it's for sure France don't perform at the same level when Zidane is absent," he said, admitting

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depends on the player and how his injury feels.