Mansion Sports – A thrilling encounter is set to take place at Parc des Princes, Paris, as the French national team hosts Ukraine in the continuation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers, Group D. The match is scheduled for Thursday, 13 November 2025, at 20:45 local time.

This fixture stands out as one of the most anticipated matches of the group stage, as it could determine the final standings in Group D. France are on the verge of securing automatic qualification, while Ukraine are still battling to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Team Conditions Ahead of the Match

France

France are on the brink of confirming their spot in the 2026 World Cup in North America. A victory over Ukraine in front of their home crowd would be enough for Didier Deschamps’ side to seal the top position in Group D and earn direct qualification for the global tournament.

Les Bleus’ recent performances have been impressive. Since their dramatic 4–5 defeat to Spain in the UEFA Nations League semifinals, France have remained unbeaten in their last five matches across all competitions, recording four wins and one draw. 

Despite being held to a 2–2 draw by Iceland in their previous international fixture, they continue to sit firmly at the top of the table.

Confidence within the French camp remains high, especially when playing at home. France are undefeated in their last five matches at Parc des Princes, with four victories and one draw — a testament to their strength in familiar surroundings.

All eyes will once again be on Kylian Mbappe, who is enjoying an extraordinary season with Real Madrid, scoring 18 goals in 16 appearances. He is expected to be France’s main attacking threat. However, Deschamps faces several injury setbacks, with key players such as Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, and Randal Kolo Muani unavailable due to injuries.

The absence of Adrien Rabiot and Aurelien Tchouameni in midfield is another challenge. Fortunately, N’Golo Kante has returned to the national team and is set to partner Manu Kone in the central area. 

Meanwhile, Rayan Cherki could feature more prominently following his strong performances for Manchester City.

Ukraine

Ukraine travel to Paris determined to keep their qualification hopes alive. After losing to France in their first meeting, Sergiy Rebrov’s side responded with two crucial victories against Iceland and Azerbaijan. 

They currently sit second in the group, and even a draw could be enough to maintain their path toward the playoff round.

Ukraine’s recent form has been promising. They are unbeaten in their last three qualifying matches, with noticeable improvements in their attacking play. 

Ruslan Malinovskyi has been the standout performer, scoring three goals in his past two appearances, showcasing form far sharper than at his club, Genoa.

Nevertheless, Rebrov faces significant challenges with injuries. Striker Artem Dovbyk is sidelined with a hip problem sustained while playing for AS Roma, and midfielder Volodymyr Brazhko is also unavailable due to fitness issues. As a result, Rebrov is expected to deploy Volodymyr Vanat as the lone striker in search of goals.

Group D Standings Before the Match

France vs Ukraine Probable Lineups – November 2025

France (Formation 4-2-3-1)

Despite the absence of several key players, Didier Deschamps is expected to maintain a strong lineup combining experience and youth.

The return of N’Golo Kante adds stability to the midfield, while Mbappe is likely to play in a freer attacking role, operating behind the striker to exploit spaces in Ukraine’s defense.

Ukraine (Formation 4-2-3-1)

Ukraine are expected to adopt a more cautious approach, relying on quick counterattacks. Despite missing key players, Sergiy Rebrov’s side still possess a competitive squad capable of challenging France.

With a balanced mix of experience and youthful energy, Ukraine aim to put up a strong fight against France on their home turf.

Closing

The France vs Ukraine match in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers will play a crucial role in shaping the fate of both teams. 

France are determined to secure the top spot in Group D and qualify automatically, while Ukraine continue to battle for a playoff berth.

With the confirmed France vs Ukraine lineup for November 2025, the clash at Parc des Princes promises to deliver intensity and drama. 

Whether France will seal their ticket to the World Cup in front of their home supporters or Ukraine will pull off a major upset remains to be seen once the whistle blows in Paris.