Overview
- After managing a minor right-ankle issue, Kylian Mbappé trained with the squad at the Parc des Princes on Thursday and is expected to start, saying the coach wants him to play.
- Didier Deschamps warned against complacency, noting Azerbaijan's recent draw with Ukraine and a core drawn from Qarabag, which has started well in the Champions League.
- France are poised to rotate, with reports pointing to Hugo Ekitike up front, Michael Olise and Kingsley Coman in support, a Rabiot–Képhren Thuram midfield, Gusto and Théo Hernandez at full-back, Saliba–Upamecano in central defense, and Mike Maignan in goal.
- Top of Group D after two September wins, France can strengthen their position and could clinch qualification this window if they beat Azerbaijan and Iceland and the other group game ends level.
- In a forward line hit by absences, first-time call-up Jean-Philippe Mateta has been integrated and Christopher Nkunku is back in the fold; kickoff is 20:45 local time at the Parc des Princes on TF1 and TF1+.