The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues as France hosts Azerbaijan in a thrilling Group D qualifier at the iconic Parc des Princes in Paris. Les Bleus, unbeaten so far, will look to maintain their perfect start and tighten their grip on top spot, while the visitors chase their first victory of the campaign. With Didier Deschamps’ men boasting a world-class squad and Azerbaijan struggling for goals on the road, this encounter promises drama, dominance, and goals. Tanzanian football fans and punters can expect an exciting clash packed with betting opportunities and top-quality action. France: Les Bleus Chasing Perfection
France enters this clash as heavy favourites — and for good reason. Didier Deschamps’ men have made a flying start to their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign, securing six points from two matches. Their most recent victory over Iceland (2–1) was a testament to their grit: they came from behind and played over 30 minutes with ten men.
That win stretched France’s record to just two losses in their last eleven matches (W8, D1), including five home victories in their previous eight. Les Bleus are now on a three-match winning streak and will be eager to extend it in front of their home fans in Paris.
However, France will be without some key names — Aurélien Tchouaméni, Ousmane Dembélé, Rayan Cherki, Désiré Doué, and Bradley Barcola are all injured. To compensate, Deschamps has handed Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta his first international call-up.
Azerbaijan: Fighting to Find Form
On the opposite end of the table, Azerbaijan arrives in Paris still searching for consistency. Their last three away matches all ended in defeat without scoring, including a 5-0 drubbing in Iceland.
Since the start of 2023, they’ve managed only one away win (D1, L8), and their long-term form tells a grim story — 12 games without a win in all competitions (D3, L9).
A change in leadership has brought a flicker of hope. After the sacking of Fernando Santos, caretaker coach Aykhan Abbasov earned a respectable 1–1 draw against Ukraine, their first point in this WCQ campaign. Skipper Emin Mahmudov netted the equaliser, once again proving he’s their key player to watch.
⚔️ Head-to-Head Record
- France and Azerbaijan have met twice before.
- France won both matches without conceding.
- The last meeting, in 1995, ended in a stunning 10-0 win for Les Bleus—a record that still resonates in WCQ history.
📊 Hot Stats and Key Trends
| Statistic | Insight |
| France | Scored in both halves in their last three matches |
| France (Home) | Kept a clean sheet in the second half in 6 of the previous seven home games |
| Azerbaijan (Away) | Failed to score in 10 consecutive away matches |
| Azerbaijan Overall | Scored one goal or fewer in 16 of their last 17 matches |
These numbers underscore the significant disparity between the two sides.
🌟 Players to Watch
- Michael Olise (France) – On fire with three goals and one assist in his last five internationals.
- Emin Mahmudov (Azerbaijan) – Team captain, scorer vs Ukraine, and their main creative outlet.
With France’s attacking depth and Azerbaijan’s defensive struggles, all signs point toward another one-sided encounter.
🔮 Prediction
Expect early dominance from France, which will aim to establish a quick lead. Azerbaijan might sit deep, but it lacks the attacking spark to pose a threat.
Predicted Score: 🇫🇷 France 3–0 Azerbaijan 🇦🇿
Best Bet: France to win both halves & keep a clean sheet
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Tip: France to win both halves looks a smart and safe pick!
🏁 Final Word
France is the overwhelming favourite to continue its World Cup march. Azerbaijan will need a miracle in Paris to avoid defeat. Expect fireworks, skill, and a statement performance from Les Bleus.
France 3-0 Azerbaijan — Prediction locked in.
