France vs Republic of Ireland

France will seek to maintain their perfect start to Euro 2024 qualification when they take on the Republic of Ireland on Thursday.

With four wins from four games, including a victory over Ireland back in March, France are sitting pretty at the top of Group B, and they’ll fancy their chances of extending their lead in this one.

Ireland are currently third, with three points from as many games, and they sit three points behind second-placed Greece.

Here’s all you need to know about this one.

France vs Republic of Ireland H2H Record (Last Five Games)

Current Form (Last Five Games)

Ibrahima Konate was forced to withdraw after failing to recover from the injury which has kept him out of Liverpool duty, with Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo taking his place. There’s also a return for Lucas Hernandez, who is in line for his first cap since his ACL injury at the World Cup.

Midfielder Paul Pogba is also injured, while his 2018 partner-in-crime N’Golo Kante has been left out after his move to Saudi Arabia.

France predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Theo; Tchouameni, Camavinga; Coman, Griezmann, Mbappe; Kolo Muani

Evan Ferguson’s injury-enforced absence is a massive blow for Ireland, particularly after his sensational three-goal haul at the weekend. Matt Doherty is also out through suspension.

Seamus Coleman and Michael Obafemi both miss out through injury as well.

Republic of Ireland predicted lineup (3-5-2): Bazunu; O’Shea, Egan, Collins; Ebosele, Cullen, Molumby, Browne, Manning; Ogbene, Idah

France are a different animal on home soil and they’re overwhelming favourites heading into this one.

While Ireland’s focus was always going to be on defending anyway, the loss of Ferguson drastically reduces their chances of a smash-and-grab result.

Expect a comfortable victory for Les Bleus.

Prediction: France 3-0 Republic of Ireland