This piece is part of a collaborative project known as the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, involving top media organizations from the 48 nations that qualified. Previews from three different countries will be featured each day leading up to the tournament’s start on June 11.
Strategic Overview
Antoine Griezmann aptly described France’s style under Didier Deschamps as, “It is a pain to watch, but it makes you win.” This sentiment encapsulates Les Bleus’ performance during Euro 2024, where they advanced to the semi-finals, yet struggled to score. Notably, in their loss to Spain, Randal Kolo Muani was the sole player to find the net from open play, with the rest of their goals coming from penalties or own goals.
While this represented a particularly cautious phase for France, it seems that Deschamps’s tactical limits were being tested. The team’s offensive strategy showed potential during their U.S. tour in March, where they netted five goals across matches against Brazil and Colombia. During this trip, Deschamps expressed his desire for the squad to become “less predictable and readable,” raising questions about whether their defensive strength would be compromised for a more aggressive approach. “At times, we’ve been a bit on the limit,” he noted.
Despite these tactical discussions, the backbone of the team remains solid. Only four European nations conceded fewer goals than France during qualifying, showcasing their defensive prowess. However, with a wealth of attacking talent at Deschamps’s disposal—including captain Kylian Mbappé, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise—the challenge lies in effectively integrating these players. Lucas Hernandez boldly claims that France possesses “the best attack in the world,” a statement that is hard to dispute when considering their individual capabilities.
Group I Fixtures
16 June vs. Senegal, New York/New Jersey (3 PM local, 8 PM BST, 17 June 5 AM AEST)
22 June vs. Iraq, Philadelphia (5 PM local, 10 PM BST, 23 June 7 AM AEST)
26 June vs. Norway, Boston (3 PM local, 8 PM BST, 27 June 5 AM AEST)
Finding the right balance has been a persistent challenge for Deschamps, particularly following Olivier Giroud’s retirement from international football in 2024. Although the team appeared to strike a good mix during the March friendlies, the pivotal question remains whether this more expansive style will be adopted for the tournament.
Coaching Philosophy
Didier Deschamps has set a benchmark for coaches at the international level. His pragmatic and conservative style has been emulated by others, notably Gareth Southgate during his tenure with England. Even with a remarkable record of leading France to consecutive World Cup finals and a Euros final in his 12 years of coaching, Deschamps often faces criticism for his tactics. When confronted with such remarks, he famously quipped, “Watch something else, then.” His achievements warrant his steadfast approach, and as he prepares to step down from his role this summer, he is unlikely to alter his methods. Deschamps has also enjoyed success at club level with Monaco and Marseille and is open to returning to that arena.
Key Player
Kylian Mbappé continues to be the star attraction, having been the focal point of France’s attack since his pivotal role in their 2018 World Cup victory. No longer just an electrifying winger, he has transitioned into a prolific center-forward, with the team’s play built around his abilities. Mbappé is on the cusp of surpassing Giroud as France’s all-time leading goalscorer, underscoring his importance to the squad.
Emerging Talent
Warren Zaïre-Emery, only 20 years of age, has already faced a rollercoaster career. He made his debut for France at just 17 and was heralded as the next big star. However, injuries and form issues led to a temporary demotion at PSG and a stint with the France Under-21 team. Now, he has made an impressive comeback, becoming a vital part of one of the top club midfields globally and aiming for a more significant role with the national team. His performance in the Champions League against Bayern Munich even hinted at a potential solution for Deschamps’s right-back dilemma.
Unsung Contribution
Dayot Upamecano has significantly improved his consistency and composure over the past year. While William Saliba has garnered attention for his performances with Arsenal, Upamecano plays a crucial role in the national setup. The 27-year-old Bayern Munich defender has started all World Cup qualifiers except a non-essential match against Azerbaijan, keeping Ibrahima Konaté out of the lineup.
Expected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
Pricing has been a barrier for many fans, but approximately 1,000 supporters are anticipated at each match. Of these, about 650 members of the Irrésistibles Francais (IF), the largest organized fan group for Les Bleus, are expected to attend the opener against Senegal. The IF is known for creating an electrifying atmosphere in the stands, although their chants can be quite straightforward. Expect to hear “Allez Les Bleus” (“Go the Blues”), “Qui ne saute pas n’est pas Français” (“Those who don’t jump are not French,” typically accompanied by mass jumping), and La Marseillaise, the national anthem, echoing throughout the stadiums.
US Relations and Trump
The relationship between Donald Trump and Emmanuel Macron has witnessed dramatic shifts since their initial camaraderie following their elections in 2017. Recently, tensions have risen due to differing views on the war in Ukraine and the situation in Iran. Trump has openly criticized France’s hesitance to back the U.S. in Iran, making personal remarks about Macron’s wife, Brigitte. He stated, “[She] treats him extremely badly,” referencing a video where Brigitte appeared to shove Emmanuel. In response, President Macron remarked that Trump’s comments were “neither elegant nor up to standard.”
