After a stunning start to the Kylian Mbappe captaincy era, France will resume their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign in Group B on Monday when they travel to Dublin to face the Republic of Ireland.
Squad Report
Rep. Ireland
It’s an exciting time for Irish football as they embark on their journey to qualify for the European Championship for the fourth time. In the past, they’ve made it to Euro 1988, Euro 2012, and Euro 2016, even to the last 16 in the latter competition.
Unfortunately, their dreams of participating in Euro 2020 were dashed by Slovakia in a heart-breaking penalty shootout.
While it wasn’t surprising that Ireland couldn’t beat Portugal or Serbia in their World Cup qualifying section, it will take a lot of work to try and beat France, Greece, or the Netherlands to secure one of the top two spots in Group B.
This is especially true considering their recent struggles in Euro qualifying matches. But there’s still hope, and the Boys in Green are up for the challenge.
The Republic of Ireland Form (All Competitions): D L W L W W
France
Excitement was in the air as Mbappe and Griezmann teamed up to set up the game’s first goal, with Griezmann making the finishing shot just two minutes in.
Mbappe went on to showcase his leadership skills as a national team skipper, scoring two spectacular goals to secure a 4-0 victory against Holland. At the same time, Dayot Upamecano also made his mark on the game with his own goal.
The French national team wasted no time establishing dominance in the group, securing a commanding lead after just one game. Their impressive track record of winning their last three Euro qualifying away matches without conceding a goal is a testament to their strength and determination.
As they travel to Dublin, the French team is determined to maintain their position at the group’s top.
France Form (All Competitions): W W W L W
Squad Report
Rep. Ireland
Ireland had to play their recent match against Latvia without their captain Seamus Coleman due to a thigh injury he sustained while playing for Everton against Chelsea. Unfortunately, it’s uncertain if he’ll be ready for their upcoming match against France.
In other news, Josh Cullen and Jason Knight didn’t play in the friendly match, as they were cautious about their fitness. However, both players are expected to start in midfield during the game against France.
France
The French team emerged from their dominant victory against the Netherlands without any injuries. However, William Saliba and Wesley Fofana were forced to withdraw from the team due to injuries last week.
If any players suffer from jellied legs and need to be rested, Eduardo Camavinga, Olivier Giroud, and Benjamin Pavard may be considered for starting positions.
Republic of Ireland’s expected starting lineup:
Bazunu; Egan, Collins, O’Shea; Doherty, Cullen, Molumby, Knight, O’Dowda; Ferguson, Obafemi
France’s expected starting lineup:
Maignan; Kounde, Konate, Upamecano, T. Hernandez; Tchouameni, Rabiot; Coman, Griezmann, Mbappe; Kolo Muani
Head to Head
It’s been a long time since the Republic of Ireland defeated France, with their last win being a 3-2 in the qualification for the 1982 World Cup.
The Republic of Ireland has won four times against France, drawn five times, and lost eight times.
Time, Date & Venue
Date: Monday, March 27
Time: 07:45 pm, GMT
Venue: Aviva Stadium, Dublin
Prediction
Although it will be challenging for Les Bleus to play away from home, and with a quick turnaround, they may need more time to repeat their recent quartet of strikes.
However, with the team’s newfound energy, they will likely teach the Boys in Green a footballing lesson and return home with another three points added to their record.
