France will look to maintain their perfect start in Group D when they face Azerbaijan in Friday’s World Cup 2026 qualifier. After narrow but effective victories over Ukraine (2-0) and Iceland (2-1) in September, Didier Deschamps’s men are firm favourites to claim another three points — and likely in convincing fashion.
France chasing third straight win
The reigning World Cup runners-up have shown resilience even when not at their best. Against Iceland, France had to come from behind after Andri Gudjohnsen’s opener, but goals from Kylian Mbappé and Bradley Barcola turned the tide. Now sitting comfortably atop Group D, Les Bleus are expected to make light work of Azerbaijan. With attacking talent like Mbappé, Kingsley Coman, and Michael Olise, France’s firepower should ensure constant pressure on their visitors. They’ve also scored in both halves in each of their last three competitive home matches — a trend they’ll look to continue.
Azerbaijan facing uphill battle
For Aykhan Abbasov’s Azerbaijan, this match represents damage limitation. After a 5-0 loss to Iceland and a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Ukraine, the team remains bottom of the table. Despite solid individual performances from Emin Mahmudov and Mahir Emreli, Azerbaijan’s defence often struggles against elite opposition, especially away from home.
Given the gulf in class and France’s attacking rhythm, goals are expected to flow early and often at Stade de France.
Tip: France to score in both halves
