France Secures Qualification with Dominant Victory Over Ukraine

In a match that has become a European classic, France faced Ukraine at the Parc des Princes as part of the World Cup qualifiers. Didier Deschamps’ team had the chance to secure their spot in the upcoming World Cup with a victory, while Ukraine was angling for a play-off position. For this match, the national coach picked Maignan in goal, backed by Digne, Upamecano, Saliba, and Koundé in defense. In midfield, Koné and Kanté played, with Barcola, Cherki, and Olise forming a trio in front. Mbappé was the standout offensive player. Ukraine featured familiar faces like Illia Zabarnyi and Roman Yaremchuk. With a decisive 4-0 win, the French team has officially qualified for the 2026 World Cup, marking their eighth consecutive appearance.

As expected, France quickly dominated possession, with offensive players eager to seize the opportunity in the absence of some regulars. Rayan Cherki missed the target with a shot from the edge of the box (13th minute), while Kylian Mbappé, looking to revitalize his form after issues at Real Madrid, saw his attempt thwarted by Trubin (17th minute). Despite controlling the game, the French team struggled to finish, with both Cherki and Mbappé showing signs of inaccuracy. Chances were limited, as they often relied heavily on individual sparkle.

Challenging First Half, Strong Second Half

Barcola almost broke the deadlock before halftime, but Trubin made a fantastic save from his curled shot, which even hit the post (42nd minute). This was the best opportunity for Barcola, who had been energetic upfront. Unfortunately, the same could not be said for Olise or Mbappé at this point. Overall, the performance from the French side in the first half lacked flair, while the Ukrainians failed to register a single shot. After halftime, France had a scare when Upamecano was penalized for a challenge on Nazaryna, but the VAR review confirmed no penalty. Minutes later, France was awarded a penalty for a foul on Olise, who had significantly improved in the second half (54th minute).

Kylian Mbappé, the penalty specialist, stepped up and perfectly executed a Panenka, putting France ahead 1-0 (55th minute). This goal sparked a more entertaining second half. Mbappé nearly scored again with a dangerous angled shot (58th minute). The goal re-energized the French side, making them more incisive. Mbappé was particularly active, though often thwarted by a strong Trubin. After Ekitiké, just subbed in, hit the post (71st minute), it was Olise who doubled the lead with a powerful shot from the penalty area (2-0, 76th minute). Notably, Akliouche made a great recovery leading to the goal, and Kanté provided the assist. The Ukrainians struggled to make an impact, while France kept creating chances. Mbappé scored his second after capitalizing on a failed intervention by Trubin on Ekitiké (3-0, 83rd minute). Liverpool player Ekitiké joined the fun, linking up with Mbappé for a swift one-two before beating Trubin again (4-0, 88th minute). See you this summer in America!