The highly anticipated Euro 2024 group stage clash between France and Poland is set to unfold on Tuesday, June 25, at Borussia Dortmund's Westfalenstadion.
This matchup carries significant weight for both teams, especially France, as they aim to solidify their position in the tournament. Here, we delve into predictions, team news, form, and more.
France's Current Form
France, the two-time European Championship winners, are currently positioned second in Group D, trailing the Netherlands based on goal difference.
Despite an underwhelming start, with a narrow 1-0 victory over Austria and a 0-0 draw against the Netherlands, Didier Deschamps's squad remains unbeaten in their last five matches, winning 14 of their last 20 fixtures.
Some fans have been critical thus far of their performances in the tournament, yet the team boasts considerable talent with players like Kylian Mbappe, who missed the last game due to a broken nose but is expected to return.
Poland's Struggles
Poland, on the other hand, has had a disappointing campaign. They are already eliminated, sitting last in Group D after losses to the Netherlands and Austria.
Despite the talent of players like Robert Lewandowski, who has been struggling with a thigh injury, Poland has failed to make a significant impact.
Their recent form includes back-to-back losses, but prior to Euro 2024, they were unbeaten in eight matches.
Team News
France
Kylian Mbappe's anticipated return to the starting lineup is a significant boost for France.
Deschamps faces a selection dilemma, particularly in midfield, as he decides between Adrien Rabiot and Aurelien Tchouameni to accommodate Mbappe's inclusion.
Other key players, such as N'Golo Kante and Theo Hernandez, have shown promising performances so far in the tournament.
Predicted Lineup: Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernandez; Kante, Rabiot; Dembele, Griezmann, Thuram; Mbappe
Poland
Poland is expected to bring back Robert Lewandowski to the starting lineup for what could be his final major international tournament game.
Centre-back Bartosz Salamon remains doubtful due to an ankle injury. Manager Michal Probierz, who took charge in September 2023, will be looking to end their campaign on a positive note despite the disappointing outcomes from their first two group games.
Predicted Lineup: Szczesny; Bednarek, Dawidowicz, Kiwior; Frankowski, Zielinski, Slisz, Moder, Zalewski; Swiderski, Lewandowski
Prediction
Considering France's superior squad depth and quality, they are the clear favorites to win this match.
Despite their lacklustre performances so far in the Euros, the return of Mbappe and the elimination of Poland from the tournament suggest a dominant display by Les Bleus could be on the cards.