France will now start defending their title when they meet Australia on November 23, 2022, at 3:00 AM (GMT+8). France is a favorite this season, but it is no surprising as they have one of the most balanced squad in the World Cup. However, things might not go in their way because of the injuries their key players face. Australia on the other hand, although they are not a newbie in the contest, they are having a hard time fighting in this game. They aim to end their three successive exits as early as the group stage.
These two teams only had five meetings before this match, and France are the one at the advantage. France won three of their last five matches, compared to Australia’s one victory, and the other ended in draw. In the 2018 World Cup, they met once, with France securing a 2-1 victory over them. Australia last won a match against France in 2001, during the FIFA Confederations Cup. Australia had a difficult journey to the World Cup, as a penalty shootout is what brought them to the tournament. As for France, they are now on their 16th World Cup appearance. On their last six appearance, they appeared in the finals thrice, winning the 2018 edition.
France are all set to defend their title
After being title holders last edition, it is not surprising that they are still a title contender this year. They are one of the most-balanced and most powerful squad in the World Cup, so expect them to be as competitive as they are. However, this time, they might experience a tough road ahead of them, following the injuries of their key players. In fact, during their last game before the tournament, they suffered a shocking loss. Opening their campaign to the World Cup, they are eager to prove that they still have what it takes for them to defend their title.
France has a very talented squad, but the absence of their key players will certainly hurt their team. Karim Benzema withdrew from their squad, following a thigh issue he encountered. With that, other guys needs to step-up, especially Kylian Mbappe.
Penalty save, secured Australia’s spot
Australia had a difficult journey before entering the World Cup, with a penalty shoot-out, giving them the key to the tournament. However, entering the World Cup, their road may be tougher because of the injuries they are facing right now. Despite those injuries, they should not stop from reaching their goals here, and continue moving forward. This squad needs to dig deeper to make their run in the 2022 World Cup more memorable. They are also hoping to finally secure a win against France once again.
Just like France, Australia also lost a key player with Martin Boyle, who suffered a knee injury, and withdraw from their team. Harry Souttar is back for Australia after suffering an ACL injury.
Prediction:
France (2)
Odds: -0.90
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