It’s a classic top-versus-bottom clash in Group D of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers as France host Azerbaijan in Paris. Didier Deschamps’ men have made a flawless start to their qualifying campaign, winning both of their opening fixtures.
Their latest victory which was a hard-fought 2-1 win over Iceland showcased the depth and strength of Les Bleus, who played with ten men for over half an hour yet still emerged victorious, Softfootball reported.
France’s recent form underlines their dominance: they have lost just two of their last 11 matches across all competitions and are currently riding a three-match winning streak. At home, they remain very formidable, having claimed five wins in their last eight games.
With Deschamps now blending experience and youth, France are pushing steadily toward their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance.
On the other hand, Azerbaijan’s struggles continue. The visitors have managed only one away win since early 2023 and have gone 12 matches without victory. Their last outing, a 1-1 draw with Ukraine, offered a glimmer of hope under caretaker coach Aykhan Abbasov following the dismissal of Fernando Santos.
However, their travel form remains a major concern. A three straight away defeats without scoring, including a heavy 5-0 loss to Iceland, shows the huge task they face in Paris.
Team News
France are facing several injury setbacks, with Aurélien Tchouaméni, Rayan Cherki, Désiré Doué, Bradley Barcola and 2025 Balon D’or winner Ousmane Dembélé all sidelined. These absences have opened the door for fresh faces, most notably Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who earns his first senior call-up.
Michael Olise has been one of the standout performers for France, contributing directly to four goals in his last five appearances for the Le Blues.
France national team shared a picture of their squad list on their x handle;
For Azerbaijan, there are no recent injuries or suspensions, offering Abbasov some stability as he continues to reshape the side. Emin Mahmudov, who netted the equaliser against Ukraine, will once again be key to their attacking hopes, though discipline remains an issue. The midfielder has been booked twice in his last three matches.
Possible Lineups
France possible lineup
France (4-3-3): Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Theo Hernández; Camavinga, Rabiot, Griezmann; Olise, Mbappé, Mateta.
Azerbaijani possible lineup
Azerbaijan (4-2-3-1): Mahammadaliyev; Medvedev, Mustafazade, Huseynov, Bayramov; Richard, Isayev; Jafarov, Mahmudov, Alasgarov; Dadashov.
Everything points to another dominant l showing from the former world champions. France have scored in both halves of each of their last three games and have kept second half clean sheets in six of their last seven home outings. In comparism, Azerbaijan have failed to find the net in their last three away trips.
Les Bleus should have little trouble maintaining their perfect start as they continue their march toward the 2026 World Cup.
