Milan on the pitch: Maignan and Rabiot from the start against Sweden
Milan on the pitch: Maignan and Rabiot start for France against Sweden in the round of 32.
France will face Sweden in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup, with two AC Milan starters ready to lead the game from the whistle. Coach Didier Deschamps confirmed the 4‑2‑3‑1, the formation that took France to the quarter-finals in the group stage. In defence, the three centre-backs will be joined by Theo Hernández and William Saliba, both coming off solid performances against the Netherlands.
The full-back pair will offer width and cover, crucial against a Swedish attack that has already shown pace on the flanks. The choice of a three-man defense with aggressive full-backs reflects a strategy aimed at neutralizing the Swedish wingers, who have already caused problems for more solid defenses in the group. In midfield, Adrien Rabiot, also from AC Milan, will take on the role of defensive playmaker, linking the back line with the forwards.
