Ukraine vs France Preview, Betting Odds and Predictions – 05/09/25

Ukraine are set to face France in Wroclaw on Friday evening. Both nations will begin their World Cup 2026 qualifying journey in this clash. This neutral-ground clash promises intensity, with France aiming to reaffirm their dominance. Meanwhile, Ukraine are desperate to start strong in a challenging group.

For Didier Deschamps, this marks the beginning of his final chapter as France coach. His tenure is set to end after next summer’s World Cup finals. Les Bleus, consistent contenders since 1994, seek another major tournament. Whereas, Ukraine hope to avoid the playoffs that have often been their downfall.

Les Bleus touched down in Poland today ahead of tomorrow night’s match!#FiersdetreBleus pic.twitter.com/AXFu0Ggxvg
— French Team ⭐⭐ (@FrenchTeam) September 4, 2025

Ukraine vs France Best Bets

Bets	Status	Moneyline
Total Goals	Over 3.5	-275
Total Shots	Over 24.5	-154
Total Shots on Target	Over 9.5	+125
Total Corners	Under 8.5	+115
Total Cards	Under 3.5	+105
Ukraine Goalkeeper Total Saves	Over 4.5	+195
France Goalkeeper Total Saves	Over 2.5	+190

Ukraine vs France Preview

Ukraine

Ukraine are entering this game missing key names. This includes goalkeeper Andriy Lunin and defender Oleksandr Tymchyk. Anatoliy Trubin will start in goal, while Illia Zabarnyi and Vitaliy Mykolenko approach their 50-cap milestones. Georgiy Sudakov, fresh from his Benfica move, and striker Artem Dovbyk will be crucial for attacking impetus. Ukraine’s recent form remains mixed. They only have two wins in their last six Nations League matches and a summer defeat to Canada.

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France

France will be without William Saliba due to a muscle injury and Rayan Cherki, who is also sidelined. Hugo Ekitike is set to replace Cherki and could make his debut alongside Maghnes Akliouche. Adrien Rabiot remains in the squad despite off-field issues, while Warren Zaire-Emery, Randal Kolo Muani, and Matteo Guendouzi have been omitted. Les Bleus are coming into this clash following a third-place finish in the Nations League.

Ukraine vs France Over/ Under Predictions

Total Goals Under 3.5 @ -275 as per BetMGM:

While France remain clear favourites, Ukraine’s resilience suggests a tighter contest. That scenario is reflected in the under 3.5 goals market at -275. Historical trends support this – many recent encounters involving both teams stay low scoring. Additionally, France often manage to stifle opponents. Ukraine have struggled in playoffs, evident from their narrow Nations League playoff exit to Belgium. With their inconsistent form and France’s disciplined defense under Didier Deschamps, the match could lean toward moderation rather than a goal-fest.

Ukraine vs France Player Picks

Hugo Ekitike to score anytime @ +115 as per FanDuel:

Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike earns a first senior call-up after an impressive start to life at Anfield. He has already netted three goals in as many matches. While initially overlooked, his form forced Deschamps’ hand, making his inclusion, and even a scoring chance, quite credible. Betting +115 on him to score anytime offers enticing value.

Ousmane Dembele to either score or assist anytime @ -165 as per FanDuel:

Ousmane Dembele hasn’t had a glaring start to season yet. However, his proven track record, especially taking into account his last season heroics for goal contributions makes the -165 line plausible. As part of Les Bleus’ attacking rotation, especially with the absence of William Saliba and Rayan Cherki, his influence in chance creation or finishing becomes even more vital.

Ukraine vs France Predictions

Picks	Moneyline
Hugo Ekitike to score first	+360
Ousmane Dembele to score anytime	-115
Desire Doue to assist anytime	+220
Kylian Mbappe to either score or assist	-195
Ivan Kalyuzhnyi to see a card	+135

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France begin their qualifying campaign on neutral ground but brim with experience and quality. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s qualification record depicts playoff disappointments and mixed recent results. They’re recording two wins in six Nations League matches and a loss to Canada.

Final Prediction: Ukraine 1-2 France

Drawing on form and historical patterns, a 2-1 French victory feels realistic. France have previously overcome Ukraine convincingly in the past, including a 7-1 friendly in 2020. Whereas, Ukraine’s record suggests they can score but may lack the firepower to hold France off completely.

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.