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France vs Azerbaijan: World Cup 2026 Qualifier Preview

8 months agoUS
France vs Azerbaijan: World Cup 2026 Qualifier PreviewSource: newsweek.com
France is set to face Azerbaijan in a FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier, aiming to solidify their lead in Group D. The match takes place at Parc des Princes in Paris on October 10, 2025. Here's a preview of the game, including how to watch, team news, and key storylines.

Key Insights

France leads Group D and aims to extend their advantage with a win against Azerbaijan.

Kylian Mbappe's availability was initially uncertain due to an ankle injury, but he has expressed his desire to play. Real Madrid has issued a cautionary note regarding Mbappe’s fitness.

France will be without key players such as Ousmane Dembele, Marcus Thuram, and Bradley Barcola due to injuries, while Aurelien Tchouameni is suspended.

Azerbaijan has a full roster available and seeks their first win in the qualifying campaign.

Why this matters:: This match is crucial for France to secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup and for Azerbaijan to keep their qualification hopes alive. Mbappe's fitness is a key factor for France's attacking prowess.

In-Depth Analysis

France enters this match as the favorite, having won their previous qualifiers against Ukraine and Iceland. Despite missing several key players, their squad depth and home advantage should give them an edge. Azerbaijan, on the other hand, will rely on a strong defensive performance and look to exploit any opportunities on the counter-attack.

France's confirmed XI (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Gusto, Saliba, Upamecano, T. Hernandez; Thuram, Rabiot; Coman, Olise, Ekitike; Mbappe.

Azerbaijan confirmed XI (5-4-1): Magomedaliyev; Aliyev, Badalov, Mustafazade, Krivotsyuk, Jafarguliyev; Bayramov, Khaibulaev, Makhmudov, Akhmedzade; Emreli.

How to watch: The match will be broadcast on FOX Sports 2 in the US. Streaming options include FuboTV.

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FAQs

Q: Is Kylian Mbappe playing?

While initially doubtful due to an ankle injury, Mbappe has stated his desire to play, but his starting role remains uncertain pending a final assessment.

Q: What channel is the France vs Azerbaijan game on?

The game is on FOX Sports 2 in the USA.

Q: What time is the match?

2:30 PM EDT on Friday, October 10, 2025.

Key Takeaways

France is the strong favorite to win and continue their march towards World Cup qualification.

Keep an eye on Kylian Mbappe's fitness and whether he starts the match.

Azerbaijan needs a strong performance to keep their qualification hopes alive.

The match can be viewed on FOX Sports 2 and streamed on FuboTV.

Discussion

Do you think France will secure a comfortable win, or can Azerbaijan cause an upset? Let us know your predictions!

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