Foxborough, MA – Less than 80 days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the French national team has begun its preparations with a tour of the United States. Les Bleus will face Brazil this Thursday, March 26th, near Boston, and Colombia on Sunday, March 29th, close to Washington D.C., marking key tune-up matches ahead of the tournament.
Didier Deschamps’ squad arrived in the US, launching a series of friendlies designed to fine-tune the team before heading to North America for the World Cup itself. The matches against Brazil at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, and Colombia at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, represent a crucial opportunity for evaluation and experimentation.
Deschamps Names 26-Man Squad for US Trip
Deschamps announced a 26-man roster for the tour, a larger-than-usual selection intended to allow for a comprehensive assessment of potential squad members. The squad includes Kylian Mbappé, who is expected to see playing time in both matches, though Deschamps indicated he won’t be playing a full 90 minutes in either contest. The coach emphasized the need to evaluate players across all positions, aiming to have three viable options at each spot.
Maxence Lacroix of Crystal Palace earned his first call-up, replacing the injured William Saliba. Corentin Tolisso, despite strong form with Olympique Lyonnais, was not included in the squad. The selection of Marcus Thuram, Randal Kolo Muani, Lucas Chevalier, and the Hernandez brothers has sparked debate among supporters and observers.
Balancing Experience and Evaluation
Deschamps addressed the selection process, stating, “We are making sure to have three options at each position. We will see with my staff if You can achieve this with 23, 24, 25 or 26 players. I am not here to take fewer players, even though I am aware that taking 26 leaves many players who could potentially be selected. I remain open and in reflection.” He added that the final World Cup roster will be announced on May 13th on TF1.
The coach stressed that meritocracy and team cohesion are paramount. While acknowledging the importance of experience – particularly for players like Kolo Muani, who performed well at the 2022 World Cup – Deschamps is likewise focused on evaluating current form. He noted that he won’t simply select players for the sake of it, but will base his decisions on the overall needs of the team.
Mbappé Chasing History, Deschamps’ Final Chapter
France, champions in 2018 and finalists in 2022, enters this phase of preparation with a wealth of experience. Kylian Mbappé has the opportunity to become the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history, currently trailing Miroslav Klose by just four goals. Lionel Messi is also within striking distance, with 13 goals to his name.
This tour marks what Deschamps has acknowledged will be his final campaign leading the French national team. He reflected on the emotional weight of this realization, stating, “I know Here’s my last with the French team. The experience helps, and experience is obviously useful. The closer we get to the deadline, the more it will be the last time, but I don’t live with that. Even if I am human and tend not to show the emotional side, I also have my own sensitivities. But I must remain professional until the end.”
Looking Ahead: Group Stage Challenge
The French team will face a challenging group stage at the World Cup, drawn into Group I alongside Senegal, Norway, and the winner of a playoff match involving Iraq, Bolivia, or Suriname. The matches against Brazil and Colombia will provide valuable insights into the team’s readiness for these competitive fixtures.
The upcoming matches offer a chance for players like Michael Olise to make a strong impression. Deschamps will be looking for immediate contributions from all members of the squad as they prepare for the demanding tournament ahead.
These friendlies aren’t just about results; they’re about building momentum, refining tactics, and solidifying Deschamps’ vision for the team. As he prepares to hand the reins to a potential successor – widely speculated to be Zinedine Zidane – Deschamps is determined to leave a lasting legacy by guiding Les Bleus to a third World Cup title.
The match against Brazil, scheduled for 9 PM French time (3 PM local time), will be broadcast live on TF1. Fans can also follow updates and access exclusive content on the French Football Federation’s website (https://www.fff.fr/).
Next Up: France will face Colombia on Sunday, March 29th, at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. Kick-off is scheduled for 9 PM French time (3 PM local time). Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of Les Bleus’ World Cup preparations.
What are your predictions for France’s performance in these friendlies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
