2006 runners-up France will begin their World Cup campaign against Australia in the first Group C match. Didier Deschamps has chosen a young and exuberant side for the tournament – a side littered with poise all across the pitch. Ousmane Dembele and Kylian Mbappe will be the focal point for their lightning-fast counter-attacks while Paul Pogba, Antoine Griezmann, N’Golo Kante and Raphael Varane form the spine.
Australia, on the other hand, bring in an experienced squad to the encounter; they have retained the core of the team that went to Rio 4 years ago. The Aussies played a long qualifying round, including an astonishing 22 matches, and were the last team to qualify for the World Cup. Mile Jedinak will be crucial in their midfield, while Tim Cahill will join esteemed company if he scores in his fourth World Cup. Only 3 players have achieved this feat in history – Brazilian great Pele, and German legends Uwe Seeler and Miroslav Klose.
It seems to be a relatively straightforward draw for France, who will be aiming to reach at least the semifinals. Australia for their part know they have a tough draw in place, with Denmark and Peru completing the group. It would be a massive achievement for the men from Down Under if they manage to scrape through to the Round of 16.
Head to Head
Total Matches: 4
France: 2 (50%)
Australia: 1 (25%)
Draws: 1 (25%)
Form (oldest to most recent)
France: L W W W D (good form)
Australia: W L D W W (decent form)
Predicted Starting 11
France
Hugo Lloris (C & GK), Benjamin Mendy, Raphael Varane, Samuel Umtiti, Benjamin Pavard, Paul Pogba, N’Golo Kante, Corentin Tolisso, Ousmane Dembele, Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann
Australia
Mathew Ryan (GK), Josh Risdon, Trent Sainsbury, Mark Milligan, Aziz Behich, Mile Jedinak (C), Aaron Mooy, Robbie Kruse, Tom Rogic, Mathew Leckie, Andrew Nabbout
Dream 11 team will also provided
