France’s national team quickly recovered after their surprising 3-1 loss to Italy in September, winning their next three matches in the Nations League’s League A group.
Following their defeat, the French team responded with a 2-0 victory over Belgium and followed up with two wins last month: a convincing 4-1 over Israel and a 2-1 win against Belgium. These results place France in second in their group, trailing Italy by just one point.
Earlier in the year, Didier Deschamps’ squad reached the Euro semifinals, but ultimately lost to Spain 2-1, never fully finding their rhythm in the tournament. Israel’s team, on the other hand, seems to be struggling in the Nations League’s top tier after an impressive last season.
Without any points after four games, Israel was defeated by Belgium and Italy in September, then lost heavily to France (1-4) and Italy (4-1) last month, leaving them little hope of staying in this competition level.
For this last match of the year, France will be missing Kylian Mbappé, as well as Aurélien Tchouaméni and Ferland Mendy, both out due to injuries.
Pavard, Fofana, and Coman have also not been selected, while veterans Giroud and Griezmann have retired from the national team. In their place, goalkeeper Chevalier receives his first call-up, replacing Areola.
Midfielders Rabiot and Kanté make their return, while other key players include goalkeeper Maignan, defenders Upamecano, Saliba, and Konaté, full-backs Koundé and Théo Hernandez, and midfielder Camavinga. In attack, Deschamps continues to count on Barcola, Dembélé, and Kolo Muani, who scored twice against Belgium last month.
Other offensive options include Thuram, Olise, and Nkunku. For Israel, there are minimal changes from the last squad, though they will be without starting goalkeeper Glazer, defender Baltaxa, and midfielder Lavi.
The team mostly comprises players from the domestic league, though they have some notable talents, including young star Oscar Gloukh and experienced forward Manor Solomon, Israel’s top scorer, as well as the skilled midfielder Dor Peretz. Gandelman, who scored against France last month, is also available.
Prediction
Israel has faced significant challenges in away games, securing only one point from their last 17 possible and being outscored 12-3. France, in contrast, has won 12 of their last 18 home matches in top-flight competition, giving them a strong edge over their out-of-form opponents.
Score Prediction: France 2 – 1 Israel
