France enter the 2018 World Cup as a nation with plenty of hope. Les Bleus’ last outing at an international tournament saw them fall at the final hurdle, losing 1-0 to that famous Eder goal at Euro 2016 in Paris. A crushing blow, but Didier Deschamps’ side showed throughout that summer they were capable of competing and beating the very best. The 2-0 win over bitter rivals Germany will be cherished for some time. Two years on and there is genuine belief that France’s star-studded squad can lift the Jules Rimet trophy on Russian soil.

France’s World Cup squad

Goalkeepers: Areola, Lloris, Mandanda Defenders: Lucas Hernandez, Kimpembe, Pavard, Mendy, Sidibe, Rami, Umtiti, Varane Midfielders: Matuidi, Kante, N’Zonzi, Pogba, Tolisso Forwards: Giroud, Griezmann, Mbappe, Lemar, Fekir, Thauvin, Dembele