The last meeting between Türkiye and France was back in October 2019, ending in a 1-1 stalemate. This time, Vincenzo Montella’s Crescent-Stars return to action at the Yildiz Entegre Kocaeli Stadyumu, looking to bounce back after an underwhelming FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage exit.
It's UEFA Nations League action on Friday, September 25, as France travels to face a Türkiye side eager to make a strong start in a tough group. Les Bleus head coach Zinedine Zidane will be aiming to kick off his managerial tenure with a victory following their fourth-place finish at the World Cup.
Team Form
Türkiye: Failed to advance past the World Cup group stage and has won just one of its last three matches.
France: Finished fourth at the World Cup but currently find themselves on a two-match losing run.
Key Stats & Head-to-Head
The last meeting between Türkiye and France was in October 2019, and it ended in a 1-1 stalemate.
France holds the head-to-head advantage with four wins out of six overall meetings between the nations.
Türkiye has won just one of their last three matches heading into this fixture.
France comes into this match on a two-match losing run.
Michael Olise broke Pelé’s record for the most assists provided in a single World Cup tournament.
What to Expect From Both Teams
Türkiye | Form: WWLLW
Vincenzo Montella’s side enters this home fixture looking to bounce back stronger after failing to get past the group stage at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
With top-form stars like Arda Guler performing well, the Crescent-Stars will look to make the most of their home fans at the Yildiz Entegre Kocaeli Stadyumu.
Placed in a challenging Nations League group featuring France, Italy, and Belgium, securing a strong result at home is a top priority for the technical bench.
France | Form: WWWLL
Zinedine Zidane is set to lead the nation for the first time, looking to snap a two-match losing streak and revitalize their recent performance in Europe.
Despite missing the injured Warren Zaire-Emery, who is replaced by Maghnes Akliouche, Les Bleus feature top-of-the-line talent like Michael Olise and Kylian Mbappe.
After finishing fourth at the World Cup, adapting to Zidane's new tactical setup in this opening fixture will be key for the visiting side.
Predicted Lineups
Türkiye (possible):
Cakir, Akaydin, Kadioglu, Demiral, Celik, Elmaz, Yuksek, Elmah, Guler, Uzun, Gul.
France (possible):
Maignan, Kounde, Upamecano, Konate, Truffert, Camavinga, Rabiot, Dembele, Olise, Doue, Mbappe.
Matchups & Players to Watch
Arda Guler: The Real Madrid star is in top form, posing a constant threat with his ball control and goal-scoring ability.
Michael Olise: The Bayern Munich attacker broke Pelé's World Cup assist record and will keep the Türkiye defense on edge.
Zinedine Zidane: The new France manager will be in the spotlight as he deploys his new tactical system in his debut match.
Kylian Mbappe: The Real Madrid forward is touted to be as important in this new-look French side as ever, according to his new manager.
Odds Market on MSport
Turkey/Home to win = 6.84
France/Away to win = 1.45
Both teams to score (GG/NG Yes) = 1.67
Over 2.5 total goals = 1.48
This clash presents a compelling narrative: a Türkiye side eager to redeem themselves at home faces a French squad entering a new tactical era under Zidane.
With both nations competing in a tough Nations League group, the Yildiz Entegre Kocaeli Stadyumu is set for an intense European football night.