Match Prediction: Austria vs France UEFA European Championship 2024
Group D is a tough group, meaning every game takes on added significance. As you might expect, this French side is considered among the favourites to lift this trophy, but their first thoughts will be on making it out of the group. With Poland and the Netherlands making up the group, there will be no easy games and even for them, reaching the last 16 is far from guaranteed.
Austria could play this game with a sense of freedom, which might make them dangerous opponents. The world will expect an easy French win during this game, so it's up to the Austrian players to prove many people wrong.
How did they qualify?
The French couldn't have qualified for this Euro campaign with more ease if they tried. Winning seven out of their eight games and drawing the other, the French qualifying campaign felt more of an obligation since there was never any jeopardy surrounding their qualifying chances. Manager Didier Deschamps rotated the squad when needed, but they know they are only judged by their performance in major football tournaments like the Euros.
Austria also qualified with ease. They finished only one point behind group leaders Belgium but, more importantly, nine points ahead of third-placed Sweden. They also conceded only seven goals.
Team Analysis
The French team has talent throughout its squad, and there aren't any glaring weaknesses. Despite their success, manager Didier Deschamps has often been criticised for playing with the hand break on. This means that despite his team's wealth of attacking talent, they don't play as attractive football as they might under a different manager. He is still at the helm, and it's difficult to argue with his record.
This should go without saying, but this Austrian side cannot compete with this French squad on paper. However, they do have some very talented players, and their recent record suggests they can score goals and don't let many in, either. Therefore, they are capable of surprising many teams in this tournament.
Players to watch
Austria will need to have some control in the midfield area, considering the strength of their opponents. Hence, we have highlighted one of the nation's most notable midfielders.
** - Marcel Sabitzer:** The 30-year-old might not be box office, but he is crucial if Austria can pick up a point against this all-conquering French side. Playing a huge role in Dortmund's run in the Champions League, he will be tasked with ensuring this French midfield does not dominate the game.
This French side has so much talent, but we wanted to highlight one man who is often overlooked despite being the nation's all-time record goalscorer.
** - Olivier Giroud:** What a career this man has forged for himself. He is always regarded as the non superstar of this team, but he won't care about this. His trophy haul and ability to score when it matters the most speaks for itself.
Prediction
Very few would be brave enough to predict anything other than a French win in this game. Austria has some talented players, but it would be considered a monumental surprise if they were to pick up a positive result from this fixture.