France take on Northern Ireland in their final warm-up before Monday’s World Cup kick-off, with Didier Deschamps aiming to find momentum ahead of football’s biggest stage.
Les Bleus are hunting for rhythm after mixed displays in recent friendlies. A surprising 2-1 defeat by the Ivory Coast exposed defensive frailties and halted an impressive winning run, yet France remain a major threat when their key players are available. This final preparation offers a chance to tighten up at the back and restore confidence ahead of the tournament.
France team news
Deschamps intends to select a strong XI that will largely reflect his World Cup plans. Arsenal supporters will be relieved to hear that William Saliba, despite a minor back complaint, is expected to start at centre-back alongside Dayot Upamecano, in front of goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
Tactically, Deschamps will be keen to test defensive compactness and the team’s transition from build-up to attack. France’s full-backs must balance forward runs with defensive cover, midfield cohesion will be crucial to protect the back four, and quick combinations through Mbappé and his supporting attackers will be monitored as signs of match sharpness. Fixing communication at the back and improving set-piece organisation are likely priorities.
Up front, Kylian Mbappé will spearhead the attack, needing just one goal to equal Olivier Giroud as France’s all-time top scorer. He is likely to receive service from Ousmane Dembélé on the right and Michael Olise in the attacking midfield role. Regulars such as Jules Koundé, Theo Hernández and Aurélien Tchouaméni are also set to return, giving Deschamps a powerful-looking squad.
France predicted lineup
Possible France starting XI: Maignan; Koundé, Saliba, Upamecano, T. Hernández; Tchouaméni, Rabiot; Dembélé, Olise, Doué; Mbappé.
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 8:10pm on Monday, 8th June.
How to watch France vs Northern Ireland?
In the UK, the match will be shown live tonight on BBC Three and BBC Two Northern Ireland.
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