France sets the bar

France not only advances in the 2026 World Cup, but also redefines the standard of play in the tournament. With four convincing victories and an overall score of 13-2, Didier Deschamps' team combines an iron defensive solidity with a creative and lethal attack that leaves its rivals without an answer. Deschamps' 4-2-3-1 system has been the cornerstone of this success.

With a double pivot that provides balance, it allows figures like Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise to deploy their creativity on the wings, while Kylian Mbappé acts as the definitive spearhead. The defense, led by a line of four and the recovery work of Eduardo Camavinga, has conceded only two goals in the entire championship. The attack has been simply overwhelming.