How France Qualified for the Last Ten FIFA World Cups
France’s national football team has a storied history of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup. As they prepare for the 2026 tournament, their qualification could mark an eighth consecutive entry. The upcoming match against Ukraine on November 13, 2023, at Parc des Princes is critical. A win would secure their place in the World Cup jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Historic World Cup Qualifications for France
The journey to the World Cup has seen France’s football team overcome numerous challenges. Here’s a look at how they qualified for the last ten tournaments:
1978: A Return After Twelve Years
On November 16, 1977, France faced Bulgaria at Parc des Princes. With only a win securing their spot, they triumphed 3-1. Goals from Dominique Rocheteau, Michel Platini, and Christian Dalger marked a crucial moment, leading them to Argentina. This qualification came twelve years after their last appearance in the 1966 World Cup.
Recent Qualifications
- 1982: France made headlines with a fourth-place finish.
- 1986: The team reached the quarter-finals in Mexico.
- 1998: France hosted and won their first World Cup.
- 2002: Despite high hopes, they exited in the group stage.
- 2006: Reached the final, securing second place.
- 2010: Another disappointing group stage.
- 2014: The team advanced to the quarter-finals.
- 2018: Won their second World Cup title in Russia.
As of now, France has showcased resilience and talent, making significant improvements since early struggles. Their potential eighth consecutive qualification reflects their growth on the international stage.
Looking Forward
The upcoming match against Ukraine is a testament to their current form. With the excitement building around the 2026 World Cup, fans are hopeful that France will continue its legacy of success. Achieving another qualification would cement their status as a powerhouse in international football.
