France vs Sweden Starting XI, Lineups & Formations: Predicted Lineups
Get the predicted lineups and formations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Last 32 match between France and Sweden, set for Wednesday, July 1, at 2:30 AM IST. Discover the expected starting XIs for both teams as they battle for a spot in the Round of 16 at the New York New Jersey Stadium. Key players like Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé (who recently scored a.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stages kick off with a tantalizing Last 32 encounter between footballing giants France and Scandinavian dark horses Sweden. Scheduled for Wednesday, July 1, at 2:30 AM IST, this match promises high stakes and intense action as both nations battle for progression to the Round of 16. France vs Sweden Dream11 Prediction: Fantasy Football Tips, Playing XI, Captain Picks for FIFA World Cup 2026 Last 32 Match.
France enters the knockout phase with an impeccable record, having won all three of their group-stage matches, showcasing their formidable attacking prowess and defensive solidity. Sweden, on the other hand, navigated a challenging group to advance as one of the best third-placed teams, demonstrating their fighting spirit and tactical adaptability.
France vs Sweden Venue and Kick-off Details
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Match | France vs Sweden |
| Stage | Last 32 |
| Kick-off (IST) | Wed, Jul 1, 2:30 AM IST |
| Venue | New York New Jersey Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey |
France: Expected Lineup and Key Players
Didier Deschamps' France is widely expected to stick to their favored 4-2-3-1 formation, which has brought them immense success throughout the group stage. Goalkeeper Mike Maignan will be between the sticks. The defense is anticipated to feature Jules Koundé at right-back, Dayot Upamecano and William Saliba forming a robust central defensive partnership, and Theo Hernández at left-back. Saliba, despite recent back concerns, is projected to be fit to start, having managed his back issue and returning to training for the knockout stages. The midfield pivot will likely consist of the energetic Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot, providing balance and control.
The attacking quartet is where France truly shines. Captain Kylian Mbappé is set to lead the line, flanked by the creative forces of Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise. Désiré Doué is also expected to feature in the attacking midfield role, completing a potent offensive setup. Key players like Mbappé, Dembélé, and Olise have been instrumental in France's dominant run, with Dembélé notably scoring a hat-trick against Norway in a recent group match. France vs Sweden, FIFA World Cup 2026 Win Probability: What Polymarket Betting Prediction Markets Say.
Sweden: Expected Lineup and Key Players
Graham Potter's Sweden is predicted to line up in a 3-4-3 formation, a tactical shift partly necessitated by the injury to center-back Isak Hien, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament with a hamstring issue suffered in their group stage match against Japan. Jacob Zetterström is the likely choice in goal. The defensive trio will probably comprise Gustaf Lagerbielke, captain Victor Lindelöf, and Gabriel Gudmundsson.
In midfield, Alexander Bernhardsson and Elliot Stroud are expected to operate as wing-backs, tasked with providing width and defensive cover. The central midfield roles are anticipated to be filled by Yasin Ayari and Jesper Karlström, who will be crucial in disrupting France's flow and initiating counter-attacks. The attacking trident is a major strength for Sweden, featuring the dynamic trio of Anthony Elanga, Viktor Gyökeres, and Alexander Isak, all capable of posing a significant threat to the French defense. Viktor Gyökeres and Alexander Isak, in particular, will be pivotal to Sweden's hopes of an upset.
What's at Stake
This Last 32 clash is a winner-takes-all affair, with the victorious team progressing to face Paraguay in the Round of 16. Paraguay advanced to this stage after eliminating Germany. For France, it's an opportunity to continue their impressive campaign and cement their status as leading contenders for the trophy. For Sweden, it's a chance to pull off a significant upset and extend their World Cup journey against one of the favorites, a challenge they will relish.
As the teams finalize their preparations, fans eagerly await what promises to be a gripping encounter. While France enters as the clear favorite, Sweden's recent performances suggest they have the potential to surprise. The battle for midfield dominance and the effectiveness of each team's star attackers will undoubtedly shape the outcome of this crucial World Cup fixture.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 30, 2026 09:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
