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France could have easily conceded more than two goals in their recent friendly against Ivory Coast (lost 2-1). Northern Ireland found the net in their last two clashes, so I see value in backing BTTS on Monday.
Key Stats
- France have seen BTTS in their last 4 matches.
- Northern Ireland have scored in 3 of their last 4 matches.
Les Bleus Dominate H2H
Northern Ireland have never won a match against France. Les Bleus were victorious in five out of eight meetings, while three ended level.
France Coming off a Surprising Defeat
France had zero problems advancing to the World Cup 2026, topping Group D in the qualifiers with 16 out of possible 18 points, finishing ahead of Ukraine, Iceland and Azerbaijan.
Les Bleus also looked great in their two international friendlies in late March, earning back to back victories against serious opponents Brazil 2-1 and Colombia 3-1, Desire Doue scoring two goals in these.
Their winning streak has come to an end earlier this week though, losing 2-1 to Ivory Coast in front of the home crowd. France had a 1-0 lead at the break with Rayan Cherki finding the net.
Green and White Army Will Miss the World Cup 2026
Northern Ireland finished 3rd in their respective World Cup 2026 qualifying group behind Germany and Slovakia, but were granted a spot in the playoffs thanks to their UEFA Nations League accomplishments.
Michael O’Neill’s side held Italy to a goalless draw in the semifinals for 56 minutes, then conceded two unanswered goals while firing just one shot on target to end their WC dream.
A couple of days later, they grabbed a 1-1 draw against Wales in Cardiff in a friendly match, while beating Guinea 1-0 earlier this week on a neutral venue in Spain. Tom Atcheson was the sole scorer in the 9th minute.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
France (4-3-3) Mike Maignan; Jules Kounde, Dayot Upamecano, Ibrahima Konate, Lucas Hernandez; Aurelien Tchouameni, Maghnes Akliouche, Rayan Cherki; Michael Olise, Kylian Mbappe, Marcus Thuram
Didier Deschamps will likely rest several star players who competed in the recent Champions League final, William Saliba confirmed to miss this clash to preserve fitness.
Didier Deschamps will likely rest several star players who competed in the recent Champions League final, William Saliba confirmed to miss this clash to preserve fitness.
Northern Ireland (3-4-2-1) Pierce Charles; Ruairi McConville, Trai Hume, Ciaron Brown; Paul Smyth, Jamie McDonnell, Shea Charles, Justin Devenny; Jamie Donley, Isaac Price; Jamie Reid
Tom Atcheson was sent off against Guinea and will serve a one-game suspension here.
Tom Atcheson was sent off against Guinea and will serve a one-game suspension here.