Ireland vs France: Euro 2024 Qualifiers Match Preview, Predicted Line-ups and Fantasy XI
Full of confidence after their demolition of the Netherlands on Friday, France will look to build a winning streak when they travel to face the Republic of Ireland on Monday.
Kylian Mbappe and co. will resume their UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifiers campaign during Republic of Ireland vs France, after Les Blue thrashed the Netherland in the last game.
Match Details:
Location:Â Dublin, Ireland
Stadium:Â Aviva Stadium
Date:Â Monday 27 March
Kick-off Time:Â 19:45 BST / 15:45 ET / 11:45 PT
Referee:Â Artur Dias (POR)
VAR:Â Tiago Martins (POR)
Ireland vs France: Match Preview:
The hosts are heading into this encounter on the back of a 3-2 win over Latvia in a friendly. Ireland had a decent outing against Latvia as they looked to prepare for their qualifying opener against Les Bleus.
Mbappe will captain the French side for the second time (Image- Getty)
Their last official fixture was in the Nations League against Armenia back in September 2022. And, they are heading into this match against France on the back of two consecutive wins and will try their best to make it three. However, it looks unlikely given the quality of the opposition.
As far as France are concerned they are heading into this fixture after thrashing the Netherlands 4-0 in their opening fixture of the UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifiers. Les Bleus were clinical on the night and their new skipper Kylian Mbappe led from the front.
The Paris Saint-Germain star was awarded his nation's captaincy after their former captain Hugo Lloris announced retirement. Didier Deschamps gave the captain band to the 24-year-old on the back of his heroics in the FIFA World Cup 2022. And, he started his captaincy era with a 4-0 win where he found the back of the net twice.
France have already occupied the top spot in Group B and they will be in no mood to let it slip.
Team News:
Ireland:
Right-back Seamus Coleman has been out with an injury but is thought to be in with a shout of returning for this one, albeit probably from the bench.
From World Cup to continental championships, discover the titans of global football and their achievements. We bring you the football teams with most international trophies with Argentina leading the pack. Check out who joins them.
In the sphere of international football, legacy is not built on sentiment but on unmatched achivement. What truly counts for a national team are the trophies won at the global stage, leaving everyone behind in the race!
This list will provide you an overview of the football teams with most international trophies. Read the full article to know about their dominance in the world of football.
1. Argentina (23 international trophies)
Argentina lifting the FIFA World Cup 2022. Image | Mint
Argentina stands as the titan in international football, having 23 trophies in their cabinet, with a rich legacy shaped by raw talent and passionate play.
Their identity is deeply rooted in the genius of legendary players such as Diego Maradona, whose individual brilliance almost single-handedly sealed the 1986 World Cup, and Lionel Messi, who finally cemented his legacy in 2022 World Cup after years of carrying the team's hope.
Brazil lifting the Confederations Cup in 2013. Image | FIFA
One of the greatest footballing nations, Brazil, holds 20 international trophies in their stunning cabinet. They are widely recognised as a nation that produce players who redefine the sport.
Legendary figures like Pele, Garrincha, and modern maestros like Ronaldinho and Romario, have all contributed to Brazil's success in achieving this milestone. Their contributions have not been just about winning, but about entertaining and inspiring.
Uruguay possesses a truly remarkable legacy in international football, regardless of its small population. They are just one trophy away to reach enter the twenties in their international trophies count, with 19 so far.
Legendary players like Obdulio Varela and Alcides Ghiggia, who had immense contribution in 1950 World Cup win, and more recently, Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez, have all profoundly shaped Uruguay's rich footballing narrative.
Mexico winning the 2023 COMCACAF Gold Cup. Image | Instagram
Mexico holds a proud legacy as the dominant force in CONCACAF football, known for their passionate fan base, technical prowess, and ability to frequently challenge stronger nations.
Hugo Sanchez, Rafael Marquez, and Cuauhtemoc Blanco, are some names served in achieving the 14 international trophies.
USA lifting the CONCACAF Gold Cup 2021. Image | NDTV
The USA has steadily built a legacy of growing competitiveness and professionalism, establishing itself as a successful team within the CONCACAF region.
Players like Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, and Tim Howard, have elevated the team's standing and inspired a new generation of American footballers. They currently hold the 5th place with 10 international trophies.
International trophy cabinet of the USA:
Tournament
Count
Years
CONCACAF Championship/ Gold Cup
7
1991, 2002, 2005, 2007, 2013, 2017, 2021
CONCACAF Nations League
3
2021, 2023, 2024
6. France (8 international trophies)
France lifting the 2018 World Cup. Image | Instagram
France holds the sixth place with 8 international trophies achivement elegantly with the efforts of world-class players and athletic brilliance. From Michel Platini of the 1980s to Kylian Mbappe, an explosive forward who's carrying the winning legacy in recent years, this team have come a long way.
Their contributions have led to some historic victories that shaped French football.
Germany lifting the 2014 World Cup. Image | Sportsnet
Germany's legacy in international football is built on resilience, discipline and strong winning mentality. They have won 8international trophies which gracefully shine in their cabinet.
Legendary players like Franz Beckenbauer, the elegant "Der Kaiser" who revolutionized the sweeper role; Gerd Muller, the prolific striker; and Lothar Matthaus, a midfield powerhouse, have shaped the team's consistent success.
International trophy cabinet of Germany:
Tournament
Count
Years
World Cup
4
1954, 1974, 1990, 2014
European Championship
3
1972, 1980, 1996
Confederations Cup
1
2017
8. Egypt (7 international trophies)
Egypt lifts the AFCON in 2010. Image | CAF Online
Egypt holds an unparalleled legacy as the most successful nation in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations, having great consistency and dominance on the continental stage.
The "Pharaohs" are known for their tactical discipline, and ability to perform under pressure in crucial matches, which brought them 7 international trophies.
The most memorable victory for Egypt was their achievement of winning three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations titles in 2006, 2008, and 2010, a feat that cemented their status as the kings of African football.
International trophy cabinet of Egypt:
Tournament
Count
Years
Africa Cup of Nations
7
1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010
9. Spain (6 international trophies)
Spain lifts the 2010 World Cup. Image | Sportstar
Spain's legacy in international football is linked to their "tiki-taka" style, a philosophy of possession-based, intricate passing football that brought unparallaled success.
This approach led to an era of consistent dominance, including a historic treble from 2008 to 2012. Legendary figures like Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and Iker Casillas were instrumental in this golden age.
Recently, the new generation talents like Lamine Yamal and Pedri, has emerged, further contributing to add up the numbers of their international trophies, which currently counts to 6.
Italy won 6 internationaltrophies in their football journey, with four World Cup wins among them. They have the capability to rise when it matters most for the nation.
Legendary players like Paolo Maldini, Gianluigi Buffon, and others have left an incredible mark on the history of team's success. The 2006 FIFA World Cup remains a memorable victory where the Azzurri peaked.
International trophy cabinet of Italy:
Tournament
Count
Years
World Cup
4
1934, 1938, 1982, 2006
European Championship
2
1968, 2020
11. New Zealand (6 international trophies)
New Zealand lifts their 6th OFC Nations Cup in 2024. Image | Pinterest
New Zealand won 6 international trophies and all of them were OFC Nations Cup wins, reflecting their dominance within the Oceania confederation. Their strong team spirit and discipline gets them the ability to qualify for the World Cup despite being a smaller footballing nation.
Their qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where they remained undefeated in the group stage, drawing all 3 of their matches against strong opponents, stands as a particularly memorable achievement.
International trophy cabinet of New Zealand:
Tournament
Count
Years
OFC Nations Cup
6
1973, 1998, 2002, 2008, 2016, 2024
12. Cameroon (5 international trophies)
Cameroon lifts the AFCON in 2017. Image | Mint
Cameroon, known as the "Indomitable Lions," has forged a legacy as one of Africa's most successful footballing nations. They have achieved 5 international trophies so far, and are in own by their raw power, athleticism, and a fearless, adventurous approach to the game.
The 1990 FIFA World Cup remains their most memorable victory, where they shocked reigning champions Argentina in the opening match and became the first African team to reach the quarter-finals, with their commendable performances.
Australia lifts the AFC Asian Cup in 2015. Image | Socceroos
Australia, also known as "Socceroos," have evolved from a dominant force in Oceania to a competitive presence in Asia and a consistent participant on the global stage of football.
They have won 5international trophies so far, with players like Harry Kewell and Mark Viduka being the central to their footballing journey.
A standout memorable victory for Australia was winning the AFC Asian Cup on home soil in 2015, that increased their status as a leading footballing nation within the Asian confederation.
As Portugal and Spain are set to battle for their 2nd Nations League title in 2024-25 season, let's see how previous victories of this tournament unfolded. Here's the UEFA Nations League past winners list for you to explore.
The UEFA Nations League, officially commenced in September 2018, has quickly established itself as a significant title in European Football. It succeeded in igniting competitive fire in international friendlies with its innovative tournament structure.
As we are about to witness another thrilling final with Portugal and Spain aiming for their second title, it is now time to check out the UEFA Nations League past winners list.
1. Portugal | 2018-19 UEFA Nations League
Cristiano Ronaldo carrying the UEFA Nations League Trophy after their victory against Netherlands. Image | BBC
Host: Portugal
Winner: Portugal
Runners-up: Netherlands
Score: 1-0
Portugal won the inaugural season of UEFA Nations League (2018-19) on home soil, with spectacularly dominating throughout. Cristiano Ronaldo was the top-scorer and star performer for the team, who scored a hat-trickagainst England in semifinal clash, to secure their final berth.
They defeated Netherlands (1-0) in the Finals, which was decided by a single goal from Goncalo Guedes in the 60th minute of the game.
France lifting their first Nations League Title in 2020-21 season. Image | Instagram
Host: Italy
Winner: France
Runners-up: Spain
Score: 2-1
France emerged as the new champion in the second season of UEFA Nations League (2020-2021). After topping the group stage that included teams like Portugal, Croatia and Sweden, they took the winning streak to the next level.
In the Final, Spain took lead with a goal from Mikel Oyarzabal in the 64th minute. However, France responded swiftly with Karim Benzema's goal in the next 2 minutes (66') and finally, Kylian Mbappé secured the victory with another in the 80th minute of the game.
Spain celebrating their first Nations League title in 2022-23 season of the tournament. Image | Instagram
Host: Netherlands
Winners: Spain
Runners-up: Croatia
Score: 0-0 (5-4 penalties)
In the 2022-23 season of UEFA Nations League, Spain clinched their first title and became the second national team, following France, to win three major titles (World Cup, European Championship, Nations League).
They faced Croatia in the finals, and neither side could score in the 120 minutes, leading to a penalty shootout. Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simon made crucial saves in the penalties, and Dani Carvajal calmly converted the decisive goal, securing a 5-4 victory.
4. Portugal | 2024-25 UEFA Nations League
Host: Germany
Winners: Portugal
Runners-Up: Spain
Score: 2-2 (5-4 penalties)
Portugal became the first team to lift the UEFA Nations League more than once, as they lifted the 2025 edition by beating Spain in the final. Spain scored early, but Portugal kept on fighting back. Nuno Mendes showed great class as a left-back and also scored a goal.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 138th international goal to take the game to extra time and finally to penalties.
Diogo Costa made the important save as Alvaro Morata missed the penalty to hand Portugal the trophy.
Spain vs France, UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final highlights: Five-star Spain beat France 5-4 in a record-breaking Nations League classic, to meet Portugal in final
Get the highlights of the Spain vs France, UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final as Spain defeated France by 5-4 to set a date with Portugal in the final. Lamine Yamal scored a brace for Spain.
Hello and welcome to our LIVE coverage of the UEFA Nations League semi-final match between Spain and France in Germany tonight.
Spain are looking to become the first team to retain the Nations League since the tournament was introduced in 2018. Meanwhile, the 2021 winners, France, are also looking to win their first Nations League title since then.
This is Koushik Biswas, who will bring you all the updates of the Spain vs France, UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final. Stay tuned and enjoy the coverage.
LIVE Updates
Jun 5, 2025, 6:59 PM
Final Score
Jun 5, 2025, 9:10 PM
Portugal vs Spain in final!
Jun 5, 2025, 9:08 PM
The highest scoring match in Nations League history!
Jun 5, 2025, 9:06 PM
That is how good it was!
⏱️ Spain 1-0 France (22') ⏱️ Spain 2-0 France (25') ⏱️ Spain 3-0 France (54') ⏱️ Spain 4-0 France (55') ⏱️ Spain 4-1 France (59') ⏱️ Spain 5-1 France (67') ⏱️ Spain 5-2 France (79') ⏱️ Spain 5-3 France (84') ⏱️ Spain 5-4 France (90'+3)
Simon does well to go low and down to his right to save Dembele's on target shot from the right.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:37 PM
36' | Lenglet blocks a shot
France are struggling here with the defence.
Pedri's delivery had created a chance for Nico to go for the goal. But, Lenglet was there to make the block.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:33 PM
33' | Yellow card
Yellow card for Lamine for a foul on Doue.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:33 PM
31' | Chance for France
Doue and Mbappe's timid efforts at the goal were saved by Simon as France looked to make a comeback in the match. Let me remind you, no second leg in the semis. The winner will face Portugal in the final on June 8th.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:28 PM
The second one!
⚡GOAL: MIKEL MERINO DOUBLES THE LEAD FOR SPAIN!!!!!!!!!
26' | Meeeeeeeeerrrriiiiiiiinnnnnoooooo | ESP 2-0 FRA
Merino's goes around the corner and Spain lead by 2-0.
Oyarzabal is again the provider but this time with a very different type of assist, completing a one-two with Merino as part of a slick spell of Spain passing with a delightful chipped ball inside the box on the right.
Merino did the rest by storming inside the box and beating Maignan in the near post.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:24 PM
22' | NICCCCCCCOOOOOOOOOOOO | ESP 1- 0 FRA
Nico Williams does the job for Spain.
On the left again, but unlike the last two times, he was able to smash the back of the net.
Yamal found Oyarzabal, and the experienced striker played a cute pass at the edge of the box for Nico to go for the goal.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:21 PM
20' | Rabiot takes his chance
Despite space being there and having Mbappe waiting over the shoulder, Rabiot went for the shot.
It went over the goal.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:20 PM
18' | Save from Maignan
It is Nico Williams who made another run on the left for Spain. But his final shot was saved by Maignan. A bit awkward, but it was a good save.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:19 PM
17' | Save from Simon
Theo passed the ball to Doue on the left. Doue, full of confidence, after a record-breaking Champions League final, he made a cutback and went for a shot with his right foot.
Theo Hernandez, though he was not in full control while making the effort with his left foot, hit the crossbar. Simon would have been a spectator if that had gone in.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:12 PM
Two of the best young players in the world in action
Jun 5, 2025, 7:09 PM
8' | Easy save for Maignan
Nico Williams, on the left-hand side, made a good run. But his final effort went straight to Maignan.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:08 PM
7' | Chance for France
Demeble ran away with the ball and found Mbappe. But, unselfish Mbappe tried to find Rabiot and lost the plot.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:05 PM
4' | Theo takes his chance
Theo Hernandez took his chance to surprise Simon with a long-range shot. The shot went over the goal.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:04 PM
3' | Yamal with the first attack
As usual, Lamine Yamal looked to break through the right and then with a backheel found Pedro Porro, whose effort went straight to Maignan.
Jun 5, 2025, 7:01 PM
Kick-off!
France start things off!
Jun 5, 2025, 6:51 PM
They are ready too!
Calentamiento completado, los chicos a vestuarios.
— Equipe de France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) June 5, 2025
Jun 5, 2025, 6:04 PM
Lineups | France
France Starting XI (4-2-3-1): M. Maignan, P. Kalulu, I. Konaté, C. Lenglet, T. Hernández, M. Koné, A. Rabiot, O. Dembélé, M. Olise, D. Doué, K. Mbappé (c)
Substitutes: Brice Samba, Lucas Chevalier, Lucas Hernández, Malo Gusto, Benjamin Pavard, Lucas Digne, Loïc Badé, Rayan Cherki, Warren Zaïre-Emery, Mattéo Guendouzi, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Bradley Barcola, Randal Kolo Muani, Marcus Thuram
Jun 5, 2025, 6:01 PM
Lineups | Spain
Spain (4-3-3): Unai Simón (c); Pedro Porro, Robin Le Normand, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella; Mikel Merino, Martín Zubimendi, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal, Nico Williams
Subs: David Raya, Álex Remiro, Pau Cubarsí, Daniel Vivian, Fabián Ruiz, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Óscar Mingueza, Yéremy Pino, Alejandro Baena, Alejandro Grimaldo, Isco, Fermín López, Álvaro Morata, Samuel Aghehowa
France will miss the trio of Upamecano, William Saliba and Jules Kounde.
Jun 5, 2025, 5:40 PM
Team News: Spain
Luis de la Fuente's side will be without the current Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, who is still undergoing his recovery at Manchester City. Along with Rodri, Spain will also miss the services of Ferran Torres, who underwent surgery for appendicitis.
Jun 5, 2025, 5:40 PM
Spain vs France: Head-to-head stats
Till now, Spain and France have played 37 games against each other, including friendlies.
Spain have won 7 times while France have dominated with 13 wins. 17 games have ended in draws.
France, in those 37 games, have scored 66 goals, while Spain scored 40 goals.
Team
Wins
Draws
Matches
Goals Scored
France
13
17
37
66
Spain
7
17
37
40
Jun 5, 2025, 5:40 PM
How to watch the match?
Football fans from India can watch the Spain vs France UEFA Nations League 2024-25 semi-final match on Sony Sports Network TV Channel. They can also watch the match live on the Sony LIV app and website with a paid subscription.
Jio TV will also stream the match.
Jun 5, 2025, 4:50 PM
Match details
Match:Spain vs France
Tournament:UEFA Nations League 2024-25, semi-final.
UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final: Spain vs France streaming details, head-to-head stats, possible playing XIs and more
Before the two European football giants go against each other, we bring you all the information you need ahead of the match of Spain vs France, UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final.
Current European champions Spain will face France in the UEFA Nations League 2025 semi-final tonight in Germany. Before the two European football giants go against each other, we bring you all the information you need ahead of the match.
Match Details
Match: Spain vs France
Tournament: UEFA Nations League 2024-25, semi-final.
Date: 6 June 2025
Time: 12.30 am IST
Venue: MHP Arena, Germany.
How to watch the match?
Football fans from India can watch the Spain vs France UEFA Nations League 2024-25 semi-final match on Sony Sports Network TV Channel. They can also watch the match live on the Sony LIV app and website with a paid subscription.
Till now, Spain and France have played 37 games against each other, including friendlies.
Spain have won 7 times while France have dominated with 13 wins. 17 games have ended in draws.
France, in those 37 games, have scored 66 goals, while Spain scored 40 goals.
Team
Wins
Draws
Matches
Goals Scored
France
13
17
37
66
Spain
7
17
37
40
Team News: Spain
Spain are in a run of an impressive 20-game unbeaten run across all competitions (W15, D5) and are looking to become the first team to retain the UEFA Nations League since the tournament began in 2018.
But Luis de la Fuente's side will be without the current Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, who is still undergoing his recovery at Manchester City. Along with Rodri, Spain will also miss the services of Ferran Torres, who underwent surgery for appendicitis.
Real Betis captain Isco is in contention to make his senior Spain return since 2019. Meantime, Gavi will also be returning to the national side since 2013. Pau Cubarsi will also be returning to the squad after missing the previous international break through injury.
Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Nico Williams, along with Mikel Oyarzabal, will lead Spain's attack.
— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) June 4, 2025
Team News: France
France, on the other hand, accumulated 13 points to finish top of League A Group 2. In the quarter-finals, they then made a huge comeback in the second leg to win from a 0-2 position against Croatia.
Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele were the scorers for France that night before Mike Maignan saved a penalty kick to hand them a place in the semis.
— Equipe de France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) June 3, 2025
Didier Deschamps will have Champions League player of the final, Desire Doue, and Champions League player of the season, Ousmane Dembele, at hand to go full throttle against Spain. However, in defence, he will miss Upamecano, William Saliba and Jules Kounde. Benjamin Pavard and Malo Gusto will then fight to replace them, alongside Ibrahim Konate being an obvious choice for the left-back role.
Kylian Mbappe, alongside Rayan Cherki, would be France's strikers' option for Deschamps.
UEFA Nations League 2025 Semifinals: Everything you need to know about the fixtures
In this article, get to know everything about the fixtures, dates, and teams and everything you need to know about the UEFA Nations League Semifinals 2025.
France eliminated Croatia after knocking them out in a penalty shootout (5-4) to secure their spot into the semis. Their match was tied 2-2 forcing them to move on penalties.
Spain had the last laugh as they knocked out the Netherlands after winning the penalty shootout 5-4. The game was tied too at 3-3 during the extra time.
Germany was the only team to advance in regulation over the two legs against Italy. They defeated Italy on a 5-4 aggregate as they reached the semis.
Portugal got the better of Denmark as they defeated them 5-3 on aggregate with the help of Cristiano Ronaldo's 929th career goal and Fransico Trincao's late brace.
Football fans from India can watch the UEFA Nations League 2025 Semifinals match LIVE on Sony Ten 3 TV Channel on Television and the Sony LIV app and website with a paid subscription.
Fixtures Details
The UEFA Nations League semifinals will be played over one leg on the 5th and 6th of June as the final takes place on the 8th of June. The losing sides from both matches will get to play another match for third place.
Spain vs France (6th June, 12:15 am IST)
Portugal vs Germany (5th June, 12:15 am IST)
Final Details
The final of the UEFA Nations League will take place on the 8th of June, 2025.
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