France and Ukraine are set to clash in a vital 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Parc des Princes on Thursday night.
For Didier Deschamps’ side, a win would guarantee them a ticket to the tournament, while Ukraine head into the contest knowing only victory will keep their dreams of direct qualification intact.
France vs Ukraine – Predicted lineup and team news
France team news
The hosts are dealing with significant absences in attack. Both Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué of Paris Saint-Germain are unavailable, each nursing injuries that have ruled them out for a second international break in a row.
Head coach Didier Deschamps expressed his regret, commenting: “It’s tough for Ousmane—he had been fortunate with injuries last year, and now luck seems to have turned.”
France’s problems escalated when Randal Kolo Muani, the Tottenham Hotspur striker, was forced to withdraw after fracturing his lower jaw in a recent league draw against Manchester United. After medical consultation, the French Football Federation confirmed his absence, prompting Didier Deschamps to call up Florian Thauvin from RC Lens as a replacement.
Despite these setbacks, there’s a boost for Les Bleus with N’Golo Kanté returning to international duty, having last played for France in November 2024. Deschamps hailed the Al-Ittihad midfielder, stating, “Kanté is operating at his highest level. When I summon him, it’s not just to include him in the squad, but to entrust him with a significant role.”
Warren Zaïre-Emery rejoined after Under-21 duty last month, and fellow Paris Saint-Germain players Lucas Chevalier, Lucas Hernandez, and Bradley Barcola are all present in the current squad.
France predicted lineup
Possible France starting XI: Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Digne; Kone, Kante; Barcola, Olise, Mbappe; Mateta
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 7:45pm BST on Thursday, 13th November.
How to watch France vs Ukraine?
Fans in the United Kingdom can catch the action live on Viaplay Sports, the official broadcaster for UEFA World Cup qualifiers in the region.
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