Australia v France

France kicked off their 2023 World Cup campaign against Jamaica, finishing in a 0-0 draw. In their second match, they defeated the 2022 Copa America winners Brazil 2-1, finding a winning goal through Captain Wendie Renard in the 83rd minute. They finished their group stages strong, beating Panama 6-3.

France showcased their goal scoring ability in the Round of 16, beating Morocco 4-0. Undoubtedly, it was an easy task for France to book their place in the quarterfinals with three goals scored in the first 25 minutes of the match.

Host nation Australia proved their quality throughout the group stages. Their opening game had a record attendance of 75,784 which saw the side defeat Ireland 1-0. They suffered defeat in their second game of the tournament to Nigeria. Finding themselves 3-1 down in the 72nd minute following a goal from Nigeria’s Asisat Oshola, Australia were able to pull back a goal ten minutes into added injury time through Alanna Kennedy, finishing in a 3-2 loss for the Matildas. However, they proved determined to finish top of Group B and had a convincing 4-0 victory over 2020 Olympic Champions Canada, ending their World Cup journey.

Finishing top of Group B, Australia were set to face Denmark in the Round of 16. They had their sights set on reaching the quarterfinals and with the backing of a home crowd, they beat Denmark 2-0 continuing their World Cup journey.

Both sides will be familiar with each other with the last meetup between Australia and France happening in a pre-tournament friendly less than a month ago. Australia found a narrow victory over the French, with the only goal of the match scored in the 66th minute by Mary Fowler. Australia will hope to find a way to win against France and make the semi final stages of the Women’s World Cup for the first time.

Team Tactical Updates

Australia

Australia began their tournament in a 4-4-2 formation, one which they have kept throughout the tournament. So far they have made little changes to their starting lineup. Following their first match, Emily van Egmond has become a regular starter in the centre forward position, with Caitlin Foord moving into left wing to replace Courtnee Vine. However, Caitlin Foord is able to move into the centre forward position to replace Mary Fowler.

In their previous match against France, Australia lined up in the 4-4-2 formation with Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord leading the attack. Australian star striker Sam Kerr has had little minutes throughout the World Cup due to injury, only making her first appearance in the 80th minute of their Round of 16 match against Denmark. It is expected that Sam Kerr will make an appearance in their match up with France for a longer period of time than their match with Denmark, although there is uncertainty as to whether she will find herself in the starting lineup. 

Australia have not lost their attacking threat however with Mary Fowler and Emily van Egmond proving to be dangerous in the centre forward position, and Caitlin Foord and Hayley Raso making good use of their wing position. 

The Matildas are expected to have their full squad available for selection, with no suspensions or injuries among the players. This will ensure that Australia have the strongest possible lineup against France if they want to make the next stage of the tournament.

Predicted Lineup

France

Throughout their World Cup campaign, France have kept the 4-4-2 formation, making changes across the pitch. A strong part of their defensive line up has been Captain Wendie Renard at centre back and it was evident that her presence was missed in their 6-3 win over Panama.

It is expected that France will keep their 4-4-2 formation against Australia, matching that of the Matildas. So far Kadidiatou Diani has been a regular starter in the centre forward position, leading the attack and scoring four goals throughout the tournament.

France have injury concerns to deal with leading into their match against Australia. In the Round of 16, Selma Bacha exited the pitch following a knock, however it is likely that she may start against Australia. In their game against Morocco Elise De Almeida replaced central defender Maelle Lakrar due to a thigh injury. France will hope she will be fit enough to resume her role in defence, however if she is unable to, De Almeida will most likely replace her.

Predicted Lineup