Azerbaijan will host France in an important World Cup 2026 qualifying match on Sunday evening in Baku. France aims to finish their qualification campaign unbeaten after a 4-0 victory against Ukraine earlier this week. In contrast, Azerbaijan has struggled significantly, suffering a 2-0 defeat to Iceland, ending their hopes of qualifying.
Azerbaijan’s Struggles in Qualification
Azerbaijan is currently at the bottom of their qualifying group, having gone 14 matches without a win. Their last victory was against Kazakhstan in June 2024. The team has not managed to score in three matches this qualifying group and sits six points behind Iceland and Ukraine.
- Azerbaijan’s last win: June 2024
- Current winless streak: 14 matches
- Last match result: Lost 2-0 to Iceland
France’s Dominance
France has secured their place in the 2026 World Cup, building on their recent victory against Ukraine. Kylian Mbappe notably scored twice, bringing his national team tally to 55 goals. With 13 points in Group D, France is currently six points ahead of their closest rivals.
- Last match result: Won 4-0 against Ukraine
- Mbappe’s goals: 2 against Ukraine
- Group D standing: 13 points
Team News and Expected Lineups
Azerbaijan is anticipated to make changes following their disappointing performance against Iceland. Players like Tural Bayramov and Khayal Aliyev may be replaced to enhance their offensive efforts.
Meanwhile, France might rest some star players since they have already qualified. A suspension will keep Kouadio Kone out of the match, and Eduardo Camavinga has returned to Real Madrid due to a slight injury. Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike could start following his recent goal for the national team.
Azerbaijan’s Potential Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Bayramov
- Defenders: Badalov, Mustafazade, Krivotsyuk
- Midfielders: Huseynov, Makhmudov, Khaybulaev, Abbasov
- Forwards: Akhmedzade, Aliyev, Akhundzade
France’s Expected Starting XI
- Goalkeeper: Chevalier
- Defenders: Gusto, Konate, Saliba, L Hernandez
- Midfielders: Zaire-Emery, Kante
- Forwards: Nkunku, Cherki, Barcola, Ekitike
Match Prediction
Given Azerbaijan’s struggling form, France is favored to secure another victory. The match promises to be a challenging outing for the hosts, and expectations lean toward a decisive win for the visitors.
Our prediction: Azerbaijan 0, France 3.
