France vs. Brazil: Probable Starting XI with Mbappé & Doué for World Cup 2026 Friendly

On Thursday evening at 9 PM (French time), the French national team is set to play Brazil in a highly anticipated friendly match in Foxborough, south of Boston. This encounter serves as a key part of their ongoing preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For this fixture, coach Didier Deschamps is expected to once again deploy a dynamic attacking strategy, featuring four offensively-minded players in his probable lineup.

This mini-tour in the United States is a crucial phase in France's build-up for the 2026 World Cup. Following the clash with Brazil, Les Bleus will face Colombia on Sunday (9 PM French time). These two matches are designed to allow Didier Deschamps to integrate a wide array of players, assess team dynamics, and refine tactical approaches.

For Thursday's game, Mike Maignan is anticipated to earn his 38th cap for the national team, standing in goal against the formidable Brazilian side. In defense, the projected quartet includes Gusto, Dayot Upamecano, Ibrahima Konaté, and Théo Hernandez, forming a robust backline.

Mbappé Expected to Start, But With Limited Game Time

In the midfield, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot are likely to partner in the engine room, providing a balance of defensive stability and creative impetus. However, it is primarily in the offensive sector that Les Bleus are poised to unleash their full potential. Ousmane Dembélé is expected to be paired with Michael Olise and Désiré Doué, forming a vibrant attacking trio.

Kylian Mbappé's role and positioning will be under close scrutiny. While the French captain often operates in a central role for Paris Saint-Germain, his exact position in Deschamps' tactical setup for this match will be keenly observed. Mbappé is confirmed to feature at Gillette Stadium, but his playing time is expected to be managed, likely around an hour. Didier Deschamps elaborated on this yesterday, stating, "He can start, but not play the entire match. He can also come off the bench, like the other 24 players. He is part of this consideration. Each player has a unique situation."

Probable Starting XI for Les Bleus against Brazil:

Maignan - Gusto, Upamecano, Konaté, T. Hernandez - Tchouaméni, Rabiot - Dembélé, Olise, Doué - Mbappé.