France’s Predicted Starting Lineup Against Ukraine

The UEFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers are approaching their final stages, with the spotlight on France as they prepare to face Ukraine. This match is crucial for France to secure their position as the leader of Group D. Previously, these teams clashed a month ago, where France emerged victorious. Historically, Ukraine has struggled against France, having never won on French soil. Their record stands at two wins and one draw for France, with a remarkable goal difference of 11-2.

France’s Predicted Starting Lineup Against Ukraine

As the match date approaches, the following players are expected to take the field for France:

• Goalkeeper: Maik Maigan
• Defenders:
  • Jules Koundé
  • William Saliba
  • Dayot Upamecano
  • Lucas Digne
• Midfielders:
  • Michael Olise
  • Kouadio Koné
  • N’golo Kanté
  • Bradley Barcola
  • Rayan Cherki
• Forward: Kylian Mbappé

Key Player Insights

• Maik Maigan is expected to start in goal despite a recent draw against Iceland.
• Jules Koundé has been preserved for this match after resting in previous La Liga games.
• William Saliba has been an automatic choice in defense, firmly securing his spot since joining Arsenal.
• Dayot Upamecano displayed exceptional passing against Iceland, achieving a 96% completion rate.
• Lucas Digne has contributed offensively with an assist in his last match.
• Michael Olise will provide width on the right, adapting his role for the squad.
• N’golo Kanté makes a return after improving his performance levels.
• Bradley Barcola will look to support both defensively and offensively.
• Rayan Cherki is tasked with providing crucial passes to Kylian Mbappé.
• Kylian Mbappé returns to action after an impressive previous performance against Azerbaijan.

Ukraine’s Expected Formation

Ukraine is also set to field a strong lineup to challenge France:

• Goalkeeper: Anatoliy Trubin
• Defenders:
  • Yukhym Konoplya
  • Ilya Zabarnyi
  • Mykola Matviyenko
  • Vitaliy Mykolenko
• Midfielders:
  • Oleksiy Hutsuliak
  • Ruslan Malinovsky
  • Yehor Yarmoluik
  • Oleg Ocheretko
  • Nazar Voloshyn
• Forward: Artem Dovbyk

The upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for vital points in this World Cup qualifier. France aims to capitalize on their home advantage, while Ukraine looks to upset the odds.