As Austria prepares to face France in the Euro 2024 group stage, football fans are eagerly anticipating a clash of styles and strengths.
Here’s a detailed preview of the match, including predictions, team news, form, and possible lineups.
Match Preview
The Merkur Spiel-Arena in Dusseldorf will host this intriguing Group D encounter on June 17, 2024.
Austria, under the guidance of Ralf Rangnick, has been in formidable form, making them a tough opponent for the French side.
France, the favourites to win the tournament, will be looking to start their campaign on a high note.
Austria's Recent Form
Austria has shown impressive resilience and performance under Rangnick.
They finished just one point behind Belgium in their qualifying group, securing six wins from eight matches.
Notably, Austria's recent victories include a 2-0 win over Germany and a 6-1 demolition of Turkey.
Despite some injury concerns, Austria has been consistent, suffering only one defeat in their last 16 matches across all competitions.
France's Recent Form
France has had a mixed bag of results leading up to this tournament.
They finished their qualifiers with a record 14-0 win over Gibraltar but were held to a goalless draw by Canada in a recent friendly.
Didier Deschamps's team, however, remains a formidable force, with stars like Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann ready to make an impact.
Team News
Austria
Austria will be without key players David Alaba and Sasa Kalajdzic, both sidelined with ACL injuries.
However, veteran striker Marko Arnautovic and in-form Michael Gregoritsch will be crucial in their attack.
Right-back Stefan Posch has returned from a knee injury and is expected to start.
France
France's preparations have been slightly disrupted by a viral outbreak, but most of their key players are fit to start.
Kylian Mbappe, despite a minor knee scare, is set to lead the attack. Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni might be rested due to a recent foot injury, giving Adrien Rabiot a starting spot in midfield.
N'Golo Kante, returning to international duty, is expected to partner Rabiot in the engine room.
Prediction
Austria has the potential to spring a surprise, but France’s depth and quality might prove too strong.
Despite Austria's solid form, we're predicting France to win this encounter 2-0, starting their Euro 2024 campaign on a positive note.
Austria 
France 
