<p>France make the short trip to Wroclaw for their opening Group D qualifier against Ukraine. The match kicks off at 5:45 AM AEST on Saturday, September 6 at Tarczyński Arena Wrocław in Wrocław, Poland.</p> <p>They arrive as clear favourites to top the group, and their lineup reflects both intensity and balance. Ukraine, determined and restructured under new management, will use home familiarity to make this a more contest than some expect.</p> <p>The ‘home’ team are looking to reset after a disappointing Nations League showing.</p> <p>Their squad blends grit and structure, and with Andriy Yarmolenko no longer at the top of the scoring charts, the responsibility now falls to a collective group of tight-knit performers.</p> <p>The home crowd in Wroclaw will be crucial in helping them hold shape and pressure in waves.</p> <h2>France’s Context and Strengths</h2> <p>France’s roster features a bright mix of star power and youthful talent. Kylian Mbappé leads the attack, fresh from a blistering season start, while Aurélien Tchouaméni anchors midfield with calm efficiency and tactical smarts.</p> <p>The backline boasts quality and depth, including the likes of Saliba and Upamecano.</p> <p>On the flanks and upfront, players such as Dembélé, Marcus Thuram, and rising attackers like Akliouche and Cherki offer both proven output and exciting upside.</p> <p>It’s worth noting that this match may mark the debut of Khéphren Thuram (Marcus’ brother), as the Juventus midfielder has finally captured Deschamp’s attention. Should he be on the pitch, expect him to show all his power and ability to duet with his own brother in Ukraine’s half of the pitch.</p> <h2>Prediction: Flowing Battle, Lean Toward France</h2> <p>This one looks more like a tight chess match than a romp. France have star quality, structure, and group depth going for them. Ukraine will look to hold form, stay compact, and test France on transitions.</p> <p>Total goals could be lean since France are methodical, and Ukraine will press to limit openings.</p> <p>On margin, <a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/soccer/world-cup/fifa-world-cup-qualifiers-europe/ukraine-v-france-9506501">the edge goes slightly to France</a>, but not by much. Expect a late goal or two rather than a blowout.</p> <p>Momentum may hinge on midfield control. If Tchouaméni and Rabiot (or Khéphren Thuram) dominate early tempo, France could grind Ukraine into submission. But if Ukraine disrupt rhythm with pace in wide areas or second-ball aggression, the balance could shift long enough to unsettle France.</p> <p>Bottom line: France should win, but expect Ukraine to make them work for it. Markets may lean toward France winning with a modest scoreline and small spreads, rather than eye-catching totals or big differentials.</p>