France are no strangers to success at the World Cup. They won the tournament in 2018 and reached the final at the last edition. Most bookies have them as second favourites behind Spain, and they are expected to impress in North America.
France’s World Cup Ambitions
Les Bleus were beaten on penalties by Argentina in 2022 after an instant classic. It would be no surprise to see the French return to the latter stages of the World Cup this summer. With Didier Deschamps as manager and Kylian Mbappe as captain, France believe they can go all the way.
France will hope to become the first team since Brazil between 1994 and 2002 to reach three consecutive World Cup finals. Brazil won in ‘94 and ‘02 but lost in the ‘98 final. France, of course, were the hosts and champions that year.
France’s World Cup 2026 Squad
The France squad includes:
- Goalkeepers: Mike Maignan, Robin Risser, Brice Samba
- Defenders: Lucas Digne, Malo Gusto, Lucas Hernandez, Theo Hernandez, Ibrahima Konate, Maxence Lacroix, Jules Kounde, William Saliba, Dayot Upamenaco
- Midfielders: N’Golo Kante, Manu Kone, Adrien Rabiot, Aurelien Tchouameni, Warren Zaire-Emery
- Forwards: Maghnes Akliouche, Bradley Barcola, Rayan Cherki, Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, Michael Olise, Kylian Mbappe, Jean-Phillipe Mateta, Marcus Thuram
France’s Group Stage Fixtures
France’s group stage fixtures are:
- France vs Senegal (8pm on June 16, MetLife Stadium)
- France vs Iraq (10pm on June 22, Lincoln Financial Field)
- Norway vs France (8pm on June 26, Gillette Stadium)
France’s Strengths and Challenges
France have all the ingredients for a successful campaign. The squad is settled, and full of experience from the last two World Cups. Many players have also tasted Champions League success with Paris Saint-Germain. World-class talents such as Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele are supplemented by depth. Recognisable names such as Leny Yoro, Eli Junior Kroupi, and Eduardo Camavinga have been left at home.
France’s group is reasonably difficult, considering the expansion to 48 teams. Norway have a talented squad led by Erling Haaland, but lack major tournament experience and depth. Senegal have shocked France at a World Cup before, back in 2002, and boast big names such as Nicholas Jackson and Sadio Mane. If France can navigate safe passage and gain momentum, they will be a hard team to halt.
Kylian Mbappe is one of the biggest names in world football. He is a Real Madrid galactico and a World Cup winner.
France are a talented team that will believe they can go all the way.