Having already secured their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, two-time world champions France wrapped up their European Qualifiers campaign in Group D with a 3–1 victory over Azerbaijan.
The win marked a polished finish to their qualifying journey, while Azerbaijan ended the group stage bottom of the table with one win and five losses.
In the previous match, France cruised past Ukraine with a 4–0 victory, guaranteeing themselves the top spot in the group and becoming the second European team after England to secure qualification for the World Cup.
Deschamps Rotates His Squad
For the final group match, France head coach Didier Deschamps made several changes to the starting lineup. Chevalier started in goal, with Gusto, Konaté, Lucas, and Theo Hernández forming the backline.
Zaïre-Emery and Khephren Thuram handled the midfield pivot, while Akliouche, Nkunku, and Ekitike managed the attacking midfield duties. Mateta led the line as the lone striker.
Azerbaijan Strike Early
The match began with a surprise. In the 4th minute, Azerbaijan took an unexpected lead when Dadashov met a low cross and slotted the ball past the French defence.
France reacted quickly and increased their attacking intensity. In the 17th minute, Chelsea full-back Malo Gusto delivered a precise cross from the right, allowing Mateta to head home and level the score at 1–1.
In the 30th minute, Gusto once again displayed his crossing quality. After receiving a long ball, he sent in another sharp delivery, which Akliouche tapped into an empty net, giving France a 2–1 lead.
At the 42nd minute, Khephren Thuram found the net, but the goal was disallowed due to a prior handball by Ekitike. Still, France didn’t have to wait long for their third.
Moments before halftime, a corner from the right forced Azerbaijan defender Magomedaliev to score an unfortunate own goal, sending France into the break with a 3–1 advantage.
France Controls the Second Half and Secures a Comfortable Win
In the second half, France maintained complete control of the tempo, keeping Azerbaijan at bay and avoiding any significant threats. The score remained 3–1 until the final whistle, giving France a composed and confident end to their qualifying campaign.
After the match, Deschamps commented: “We didn’t start well, but the team adjusted quickly and regained control. This match allowed me to observe many players’ performances. Apart from Samba, who didn’t get to play, I’ve concluded everyone.”
Ukraine Beat Iceland to Claim a Playoff Spot
In the group’s other fixture, world No. 27 Ukraine defeated 74th-ranked Iceland 2–0 at home. Ukraine finished the group with 10 points, six behind France and qualified for the playoffs. Iceland, with 7 points, finished third and missed out on the World Cup.
Ukraine scored both goals late in the match. In the 83rd minute, Khusuliyak assisted Zubkov to break the deadlock. In added time, Kaluzhnyi set up Khusuliyak to seal the victory.
Group D Qualification Finalised
With the final round completed, France qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup. Ukraine advances to the playoffs in search of the final ticket.
