France heads into quarter‑final with an unrecognisable XI

On 9 July 2026, France meets Morocco in Boston with a lineup radically different from 2022. After a 1‑0 win over Paraguay on 4 July (Paraguay 0‑1 France), Les Bleus are on a five‑game winning streak (5W‑0D‑0L). Two key figures, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Hugo Ekitiké, remain sidelined.

What caused the overhaul?

Four years after the Qatar semi‑final, the squad lost Hugo Lloris, Raphaël Varane, Antoine Griezmann and Olivier Giroud to international retirement. Late‑stage injuries forced Didier Deschamps to rethink the back line. Only Jules Koundé, Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé stay from the old eleven.

Who is in the probable XI?

Alphonse Maignan will guard the net. Defensively, Jules Koundé takes the right flank, partnered by Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba and Lucas Digne. In midfield, Adrien Rabiot and Ibrahima Koné will drive the transition, while the attacking trio of Dembélé, Amine Olise and Barcola supports Mbappé up front. The set‑up shows Deschamps’ blend of youth and experience.

What are the stakes?

The clash with Morocco is a historic revenge and a major test before the semi‑finals. A win would boost the squad’s confidence, arriving in top form and high morale. A loss would force a quick reshuffle for the next decisive game against the winner of Brazil‑England.

Tournament context

France’s journey has featured a five‑match winning run, highlighted by the latest triumph over Paraguay (2026‑07‑04). The next challenge, at home on 9 July, pits the Bleus against Morocco. While Tchouaméni and Ekitiké’s absences will be felt, the squad already displays reassuring depth.