France vs Ukraine prediction, H2H and probable lineups — 13 November 2025
On November 13, 2025, the Stade de France in Saint-Denis will host the matchday 5 clash of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers between France and Ukraine—one of the marquee fixtures of the autumn campaign.
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Key facts and head-to-head history:
- France are unbeaten in their last 5 matches.
- Ukraine have lost 1 of their last 5 games.
- The teams have faced each other just 13 times.
- Head-to-head record: France – 7 wins, draws – 5, Ukraine – 1 win.
- Both teams have scored in 3 of the last 5 encounters.
- France's biggest win over Ukraine came in 2021, when Les Bleus thrashed Ukraine 7-1 at home.
Match preview:
Didier Deschamps' side confidently tops the group, showcasing consistency and a potent attacking force, while Ukraine sits in second place, continuing their pursuit of a direct ticket to the World Cup.
France approach this fixture in top form: Mbappé, Olise, and Dembélé lead a powerhouse squad that rarely gives opponents a chance at home. The Blues are also fueled by a sense of revenge—Ukraine have snatched points from them in previous campaigns, adding extra motivation for the hosts.
Under Serhiy Rebrov, Ukraine is gradually finding the right balance between discipline and attacking play. The team relies on dynamic leaders—Malinovskyi, Tsygankov, and Dovbyk—who can ignite the game with rapid wing play and counterattacks. However, defensive lapses and instability on set pieces remain weak spots that France will surely look to exploit.
A tense, high-tempo match is expected: France will control possession and seek an early goal, while Ukraine will look to hit on the break, banking on pace and set pieces. Home advantage and squad quality make France the favorites, but the visitors are capable of springing a surprise, especially with a smart tactical approach.
Probable lineups:
- France: Maignan, Digne, Upamecano, Saliba, Kounde, Camavinga, Kone, Nkunku, Olise, Coman, Mbappé.
- Ukraine: Trubin, Konoplia, Zabarnyi, Matviyenko, Mykolenko, Yarmolyuk, Hutsuliak, Malinovskyi, Shaparenko, Tsygankov, Dovbyk.
Match prediction:
France come into the game in excellent form and play at home, where they rarely drop points. The squad's class and depth give Les Bleus a clear advantage. However, Ukraine have shown time and again that they can take points off top teams, including France. Expect an open game with plenty of goals.
Prediction: Total goals over 2.5 – Yes.
