France wrapped up their World Cup qualifying journey with a convincing 3-1 victory over Azerbaijan in Baku, marking the end of a campaign that had already ensured their place at next year’s finals. Despite falling behind early to a Renat Dadashov strike, “Les Bleus” showed composure and quality to turn the game around. Their resilience highlighted why they are still considered one of the world’s top contenders.
The absence of Kylian Mbappe, who recently reached “400 career goals,” meant France had to adjust their attacking setup. His ankle issue opened the door for Jean-Philippe Mateta, and the Crystal Palace striker made the most of the opportunity. His energy, movement, and clinical presence offered France a different dynamic in the final third.
Azerbaijan shocked the visitors just minutes into the game when Rahman Dasdamirov burst past Malo Gusto and delivered a precise low cross. Dadashov reacted quickest, beating Lucas Hernández to sweep the ball home and momentarily unsettle the French defense.
Mateta Leads the Response
France responded in the 17th minute as Jean-Philippe Mateta rose to head in a well-placed cross from Gusto, scoring his “second international goal in two starts.” The moment restored France’s confidence and shifted momentum firmly in their favor. Mateta’s physicality and timing proved essential against Azerbaijan’s compact defense.
Les Bleus believed they had taken the lead shortly afterward when Gusto’s strike was deflected in by Christopher Nkunku. However, a VAR check determined the ball had struck Nkunku’s arm, ruling the goal out. It was a frustrating moment, but France remained composed and continued to control possession.
Their patience was rewarded when Gusto once again found space on the right, drifting in at the far post before sweeping the ball across for Maghnes Akliouche to finish. The goal showcased France’s movement and precision in the attacking third, qualities that have defined their qualifying run.
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Missed Chances and VAR Interventions
France appeared to extend their lead again when Khephren Thuram smashed the ball home from close range, but VAR intervened, ruling out the goal due to a handball by Hugo Ekitike. The decision added another layer of frustration, yet France maintained their tempo.
The third goal finally arrived before halftime when Thuram met a corner with his knee, forcing Azerbaijan keeper Sahruddin Mahammadaliyev into an own goal. It gave France a comfortable cushion heading into the break and underlined their aerial superiority.
Mateta nearly doubled his tally after halftime when he connected with a Theo Hernandez cross, but he guided the ball wide. France continued to create openings, though Azerbaijan defended more compactly in the second half.
France Secures Top Spot With Authority
Thuram tested substitute goalkeeper Aydin Bayramov with a fierce strike, while Nkunku saw another effort blocked as France pressed for a fourth. Although they could not add to their tally, they remained firmly in control until the final whistle.
Didier Deschamps’ side finished top of Group D with “16 points,” reflecting their consistency throughout the qualifiers. From dominant wins to moments requiring resilience, France proved capable of handling any scenario. Their depth and tactical flexibility were evident once again.
Azerbaijan, meanwhile, ended the campaign at the bottom of the group with “one point.” Despite showing flashes of determination, they struggled to match the quality and pace of France. Still, their early goal in this match offered encouragement for future improvements.
With qualifying complete, France now turns their attention toward preparing for the World Cup finals. Their performance in Baku reinforced their status as strong contenders and highlighted emerging talents eager to make their mark on the biggest stage. Stay tuned for the latest football news only at footballcoasters.co.uk.