Turkey welcome France to Kocaeli for their opening UEFA Nations League match. The visitors begin a new era under Zinedine Zidane, while Turkey hope to use home advantage to challenge one of the strongest squads in Europe.

Turkey face important absences

Turkey have won three of their previous five matches, including victories over the United States, Venezuela and North Macedonia. Their two defeats during that period came against Paraguay and Australia.

The home crowd should create a difficult atmosphere for France, but Turkey enter the match without Kenan Yıldız, who is recovering from a broken foot. Hakan Çalhanoğlu is also doubtful with a groin problem.

Those absences could leave more responsibility on Arda Güler and Kerem Aktürkoğlu. Turkey still have enough attacking quality to create chances, but replacing Yıldız’s movement and Çalhanoğlu’s control in midfield will be difficult.

Zidane begins his time with France

Zinedine Zidane takes charge of France for the first time after replacing Didier Deschamps. His opening squad includes several new faces, but the main attacking options remain familiar.

Kylian Mbappé continues as captain, although his preparation has been interrupted by illness. Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise and Désiré Doué give Zidane several alternatives if Mbappé is unable to start.

France are also without Aurélien Tchouaméni, William Saliba and Marcus Thuram, while Mattéo Guendouzi is suspended. Despite those absences, the visitors should still field the stronger starting lineup.

France have greater depth

Turkey have previously shown that they can trouble France, beating them 2–0 at home before drawing 1–1 in their two European Championship qualifiers in 2019.

This French squad still carries considerably more quality. Zidane can make significant changes from the bench, while Turkey’s attacking options are reduced by the absence of Yıldız.

The opening stages could be close, particularly if Turkey use the energy from the home crowd. France should become more dangerous as the match develops, with their pace and individual quality capable of exposing Turkey once space begins to appear.

Verdict

Turkey can make the opening stages difficult in Kocaeli, but their absences weaken a team that needs its best players available against this level of opposition.

France have greater quality and depth throughout the squad. Even if Mbappé is not ready to start, the visitors have enough attacking options to take control and create the chances required for a convincing victory.

Tip

France -1 Asian Handicap