Fédération Française de Football

Two-Time World Champions • Tournament Favorites

Qualification Journey

France secured their place at the 2026 World Cup with a commanding 4-0 victory over Ukraine at the Stade de France on November 14, 2025. Les Bleus topped UEFA Group D with a dominant qualifying campaign, confirming their status as one of the tournament favorites. As two-time World Cup champions and runners-up in Qatar 2022, France will compete in their 16th World Cup with ambitions of reclaiming the trophy they won in 2018.

The qualification campaign showcased French excellence:

• Topped UEFA Group D with 13 points and a plus-10 goal difference
• Comprehensive 4-0 victory over Ukraine sealed qualification
• Unbeaten at home throughout the qualifying campaign
• Strong defensive record with organized team performances
• Qualified with one match to spare in the group

Match Analysis: France 4-0 Ukraine

The qualification-clinching victory at the Stade de France was a professional and dominant display from Didier Deschamps’ side. France controlled the match from the opening whistle, showcasing the technical quality and tactical discipline that has made them one of world football’s most successful nations over the past decade.

The French attack was fluid and incisive, with Kylian Mbappé leading the line brilliantly. The Real Madrid superstar’s pace and movement constantly troubled the Ukrainian defense. France’s midfield trio controlled possession and tempo, dictating play throughout the 90 minutes. The clean sheet demonstrated Les Bleus’ defensive solidity, with the backline barely tested by Ukraine’s limited attacking threats.

Road to Qualification Excellence

France’s path to the 2026 World Cup was marked by consistency and professionalism. After beginning their campaign with solid performances, they built momentum through the group stages. Key victories included a 2-0 away win against Ukraine in September, which essentially secured their qualification fate, and dominant home performances that thrilled French supporters.

The team maintained their focus throughout the campaign despite being strong favorites. Deschamps rotated his squad intelligently, giving opportunities to fringe players while ensuring the core group remained sharp. This approach kept players fresh and maintained healthy competition for places, which will be crucial for the demanding 2026 World Cup with its expanded format.

Squad Depth and Tactical Evolution

France possesses arguably the deepest squad in world football. With stars playing for Europe’s elite clubs, Deschamps has an embarrassment of riches across all positions. Kylian Mbappé remains the team’s talisman, but the supporting cast is equally impressive. Antoine Griezmann continues to provide creativity and experience, while young talents like Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni have matured into world-class midfielders.

Defensively, France combines experience with youth. Veterans like Raphaël Varane may still feature, while younger center-backs like Ibrahima Konaté and William Saliba provide athleticism and composure. In goal, Mike Maignan has established himself as a worthy successor to Hugo Lloris, providing security and leadership from the back.

Looking Ahead to 2026 World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup represents France’s best opportunity to become the first nation since Brazil in 1958 and 1962 to win consecutive World Cups. Having reached the final in 2022, narrowly losing to Argentina on penalties, Les Bleus will be determined to go one step further in North America.

France enters the tournament as one of the favorites alongside Argentina and Brazil. Their blend of experience from multiple deep World Cup runs and hungry young talent creates a perfect combination. The expanded 48-team format means more matches, but France’s squad depth should be an advantage rather than a burden. With most players at or approaching their peak years, the timing couldn’t be better for another French assault on football’s biggest prize.

France heads to the 2026 World Cup as one of the favorites to lift the trophy. With a golden generation of talent led by Kylian Mbappé and guided by the experienced Didier Deschamps, Les Bleus will aim to add a third star to their jersey and cement their place among football’s all-time great teams.