The French national team came into this fixture as one of the big favourites for the World Cup but they were left licking their wounds after a surprise 1-2 defeat to Ivory Coast. That result has set tongues wagging back home especially after a disappointing European Championship campaign where the side failed to hit their usual heights. Fans are hoping the lads can bounce back strongly against Northern Ireland and show the kind of ruthless finishing that saw them rattle in goals for fun in recent months.
Team Form
France had been in sparkling shape before the Ivory Coast setback going unbeaten in nine matches with eight wins and a single draw. During that run their attack clicked beautifully often finding the net at least twice in every outing and they put on a real show when they hammered Ukraine 4-0. Northern Ireland on the other hand have struggled to find consistency away from home managing just one win in their last ten road games against anyone other than minnows like Luxembourg.
- France unbeaten in nine prior to the loss with eight victories
- Northern Ireland secured only three wins from eight recent outings all at home
- France scored two or more goals in each of their last nine games
Tactical Analysis
With no recent history between these sides in the modern era the French will be expected to dominate from the first whistle using their pace and creativity in wide areas to stretch the Irish defence. Northern Ireland tend to sit deep and rely on counter attacks but their lack of quality in the final third has often left them toothless on bigger stages. Expect France to control possession and look for early breakthroughs through their star forwards who will be desperate to make amends for the midweek disappointment.
Betting Proposal
The hosts are likely to come out firing and should have far too much quality for the visitors to handle. A comfortable home win by three goals or more looks the smart play given France attacking firepower and Northern Ireland defensive vulnerabilities on the road. France to win by three goals or more at 2.03 stands out as the value pick for this one.
