On September 5, 2025, Ukraine will play France in the 2026 World Cup European qualifiers. The match starts at 20:45 Central European Time. Here’s a look at the teams and what to expect.
Ukraine
The Ukrainian national team had mixed results in the Nations League. Competing in League B alongside Albania, Georgia, and the Czech Republic, they bounced back from two early losses to finish second, earning a playoff spot against Belgium for promotion to League A. Ukraine won 3-1 at home but lost the away leg. They followed this with two friendly matches: a 4-2 loss to Canada and a 2-1 win over New Zealand. In their last eight matches, Ukraine has achieved four wins, two losses, and two draws.
In previous matches against France, the teams have a history of competitive encounters. During the 2021 World Cup qualifiers, both matches ended in a 1-1 draw. Historically, Ukraine has hosted France six times, with one win for Ukraine, two for France, and three draws.
France
France is the clear favorite in this group. As the 2018 World Cup champions and 2022 finalists, they are seen as strong contenders. Like Ukraine, France will also kick off their qualifiers with this match. In the Nations League, France played in League A, finishing top of their group to reach the playoffs. They defeated Croatia in the quarterfinals but lost to Spain 4-5 in a tense semifinal. However, France won the third-place match against Germany 2-0.
Looking at their matchup history with Ukraine, France has the upper hand. In the last seven meetings in all competitions, France has claimed four wins, drawn twice, and lost only once. This reinforces France’s position as favorites for the upcoming game.
Probable lineups
- Ukraine: Riznyk, Bondar, Zabarnyi, Konoplia, Matviyenko, Kalyuzhnyi, Zubkov, Yarmolyuk, Bondarenko, Sudakov, Dovbyk.
- France: Maignan, Koundé, Konaté, Theo Hernandez, Upamecano, Tchouaméni, Rabiot, Thuram, Dembélé, Doué, Mbappé.
Key facts and head-to-head
- Ukraine’s last five matches featured over 2.5 goals.
- Both teams scored in 6 of Ukraine’s last 7 matches.
- France is unbeaten in 5 of the last 6 meetings.
- Both teams scored in 4 of the last 6 encounters.
- France scored first in 3 of the last 4 matches against Ukraine.
Ukraine vs France match prediction
France enters the qualifiers as favorites, boasting one of the strongest squads globally and having a solid track record. As this is their first match of the campaign, they will aim to start strong. While Ukraine can be competitive and play an attacking style of football, there is a noticeable gap in class. I predict a France win, possibly with a -1 handicap at odds of 1.63.
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