"This campaign represents the final chapter for Didier Deschamps as France boss, with the 55-year-old set to step down after next summer's World Cup in North America. His last opportunity to add to the 2018 World Cup title ended in disappointment at the recent Nations League, where his side lost a thrilling 5-4 semi-final to Spain despite an incredible late comeback. They did, however, respond by beating Germany 2-0 to claim third place."
"While criticism has followed Deschamps, France's recent record remains strong. Since the 2022 World Cup final, only Germany, Spain, Italy, and Croatia have beaten them, and qualification for 2026 looks inevitable. Starting against second-seeds Ukraine makes for a testing opening, even if the match is being staged on neutral ground in Poland. A win here would make Les Bleus heavy favourites to top the group. France have not missed a World Cup since 1994 and boast two titles and two further final appearances since then."
France begin World Cup qualifying in a condensed four-team group after Nations League participation, with fixtures to be completed over three months. Didier Deschamps will step down after next summer's World Cup, making this his final qualifying campaign. France lost a dramatic 5-4 Nations League semi-final to Spain but beat Germany 2-0 to finish third. France remain largely unbeaten since the 2022 World Cup final and are heavy favourites to top the group. Ukraine have European Championship consistency but limited World Cup success, with only one appearance (2006) and multiple recent play-off defeats. Head-to-head history strongly favors France.
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