France vs Israel Prediction: 14/11/2024

After a surprise loss to Italy in September (1-3), the French team has since regained momentum in their Nations League group, winning three consecutive matches. They bounced back by defeating Belgium 2-0 shortly after their initial loss to Italy and continued their winning streak last month with a 4-1 victory over Israel and another 2-1 win against Belgium.

France now sits second in the group, trailing Italy by just one point. Earlier this year, the team reached the Euro semi-finals but fell short against eventual champions Spain, losing 2-1.

For Israel, participation in League A has proven challenging, as the team has struggled to secure any points in its first four games. After gaining promotion last season, they’ve faced tough defeats, beginning with a 3-1 loss to Belgium and a narrow 2-1 loss to Italy in September.

In October, they suffered more substantial losses against France (4-1) and Italy (4-1). Israel, who did not qualify for the Euro this summer, now has little chance of staying in the top division of the Nations League.

Several notable players are absent from Didier Deschamps’ squad, including Kylian Mbappé, who remains sidelined, and Aurélien Tchouaméni and Ferland Mendy, both out due to injuries. Also missing are Pavard, Fofana, and Coman. Retired players Giroud and Griezmann won’t be in the lineup, either.

However, Lille’s Chevalier has been called up as goalkeeper, with Areola absent, and midfielders Rabiot and Kanté return to add experience. The squad includes key players like Maignan, Upamecano, Saliba, Konaté, Koundé, Theo Hernandez, and Camavinga. In attack, Deschamps has retained Barcola, Dembélé, and Kolo Muani, who recently scored twice against Belgium. Thuram, Olise, and Nkunku are also in the lineup.

For Israel, the team remains mostly unchanged from last month, though starting goalkeeper Glazer, defender Baltaxa, and midfielder Lavi are absent. Most of the squad plays in the local league, with standout players including Oscar Gloukh and experienced forward Manor Solomon. Gandelman, who scored against France last month, is also available.

 

Prediction

Israel has struggled in recent Nations League away games, with only one point from their last 17 and a 12-3 goal deficit. Meanwhile, France has won 12 of their last 18 home games at this level and will be looking to capitalize on Israel’s poor form.

Prediction: France 2 : 1 Israel