Turkiye - France

A depleted Turkiye side faces a significant tactical challenge as they host France at Kocaeli Stadium on 25 September 2026 for this UEFA Nations League A Group 1 matchday 1 encounter. The hosts are navigating a difficult period with key creative figures such as Hakan Calhanoglu, Kenan Yildiz, and Orkun Kokcu all sidelined through injury. Their expected XI, featuring Baris Alper Yilmaz and Arda Guler in attack, will need to find immediate cohesion to counter a formidable French lineup that remains dangerous despite the defensive absences of William Saliba and Theo Hernandez.

France arrives looking to reset after a chaotic 4-6 defeat against England during their most recent World Cup outing in July 2026. Historically, this fixture has proven tight, with Turkiye famously securing a 2-0 victory in their last competitive home meeting during the 2019 EURO qualification group stage. With both sides dealing with notable personnel gaps, this opening clash offers an early opportunity to establish dominance in a highly competitive group.