France — Azerbaijan : Match Preview and Prediction for October 10,2025

France: Dominant but Pragmatic

France enters this qualifier as the undeniable favorite in Group D, boasting a recent Bronze in the Nations League and a semi-final appearance at the last Euros, not to mention their runners-up finish at the Qatar World Cup. However, there’s an underlying pragmatism to Didier Deschamps’ current squad, a trait that was evident even in last season’s Euro campaign. Rumors also suggest Deschamps might be making way for Zidane within a year of the World Cup.

Modest Start to World Cup Qualifiers

Their two victories last month, marking the start of their World Cup qualifying campaign against Ukraine (2-0) and Iceland (2-1), were rather understated. The ‘Les Bleus’ appeared to exert only the necessary effort, seemingly conserving energy for future challenges.

Tough Victory Against Iceland

The home match against the ‘Vikings’ proved challenging, with the French side conceding first. However, thanks to crucial contributions from Mbappé and Barcola, they managed to turn the tide and secure a 2-1 victory.

Squad Challenges Ahead of Azerbaijan Clash

Facing Azerbaijan at Parc des Princes, the home side is expected to adopt a similar approach, focusing on minimal effort to avoid further injuries, especially after losing Doué and Dembélé. Adding to their woes, the squad will be without the suspended Tchouaméni, as well as Marcus Thuram and Bradley Barcola. Kylian Mbappé is also doubtful due to an ankle issue, significantly impacting France’s offensive capabilities.

Azerbaijan’s Coaching Change

The Azerbaijani Football Federation has decided to part ways with Fernando Santos, dismissing the Portuguese coach immediately after a crushing 0-5 defeat to Iceland. During his year-long tenure, Santos’s open style of play, while renowned, led to numerous heavy and humiliating losses for the team across various competitions. As a result, the national team will continue its qualifying campaign under local specialist Aykhan Abbasov, who has stepped up from the youth squad.

Immediate Impact Under New Leadership

Surprisingly, the new coach’s debut was not a failure; Azerbaijan managed to claim a point against Ukraine, playing out a 1-1 draw.

A Pragmatic Defensive Approach

It’s evident that Abbasov, assessing the team’s capabilities, has shifted the Southern European squad’s play towards a more pragmatic and defensive style, which Azerbaijan is quite capable of executing. Therefore, at Parc des Princes, I anticipate a disciplined defensive performance and a well-organized ‘bus’ from this modest team. All of the visitors’ key players are fit and available.