Four days after a surprise defeat against Ivory Coast in Nantes (2-1), Didier Deschamps’ men must regain certainty. Despite a convincing first period during this meeting, the French team ended up giving in to the Elephants, conceding their first defeat in several months. Beyond the result, this France – Northern Ireland, played Monday June 8 at 9:10 p.m., represents above all the last opportunity to refine the automation before the flight to the United States. The day after the meeting, the French delegation will leave France to reach its base camp and officially launch its global campaign.
This evening will also have a symbolic significance. It constitutes one of Didier Deschamps’ last meetings on French soil as coach before his announced departure after the World Cup. After more than a decade at the head of the Blues, the technician will therefore experience a special moment in front of the French public.
No defeat against Northern Ireland
Against Northern Ireland, France is the clear favorite. The two nations have faced each other several times in their history for a very favorable record for the Blues, who have never lost against the Northern Irish. A historic domination that the Tricolores will try to confirm before moving towards serious things.
But the main thing will be elsewhere. In this type of meeting, the collective lessons often count more than the result. Didier Deschamps will above all seek to see his team regain rhythm, intensity and mastery in the game. A few days before the start of the World Cup, every detail counts.
This France – Northern Ireland is therefore much more than a simple friendly match. It is the last rehearsal before the big start, the last opportunity to correct imperfections and regain confidence before embarking on the quest for a third star. From the final whistle, the preparation will give way to competition and that’s where the story will truly begin.
France’s group at the World Cup
As a reminder, France is part of Group I. It will face:
- Senegal on Tuesday June 16
- Iraq on Monday June 22
- Norway on Friday June 26
