World Cup 2026

France World Cup projected path: Fixture list and route to the World Cup final

The 2018 champions looked imperious through the group stage, led by the goals of Ousmane Dembélé and Kylian Mbappé.

FRANCK FIFE

Journalist, AS USA

A journalist, soccer fanatic and Shrewsbury Town fan, Will’s love for the game has withstood countless playoff final losses. After graduating from the University of Liverpool he wrote for a number of British publications before joining AS USA in 2020. His work focuses on the Premier League, LaLiga, MLS, Liga MX and the global game.

Update: Jun 27th, 2026 23:30 EDT

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Heading into the 2026 World Cup, France were many experts’ tip to lift the trophy. Didier Deschamps’ side have been incredibly reliable on the biggest stage and boast one of the fiercest attacking armories on the planet.

With the likes of Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué and Kylian Mbappé, France blitzed through the group stage with three wins from three. That included an impressive 4-1 win over Norway, albeit against a much-changed Norwegian team.

France World Cup projected path: Fixture list and route to the World Cup final — France's forward line boasts many of the best players on the planet.JEWEL SAMAD

France lifted the World Cup in 2018 and reached the final again in 2022, only losing to eventual champions Argentina on penalties. They will be looking to make a historic third consecutive appearance in the final this summer, but they have a tough route to get there...

Who will France play in the round of 32?

After topping Group I ahead of Norway and Senegal, France have lined up a round of 32 fixture against Sweden. With Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres in the frontline Sweden have the firepower to hurt teams and will be hoping to pull off a shock.

Where? New York, June 30

Who could France play in the round of 16?

If France progress past Sweden they will take on the winner of Germany and Paraguay in the round of 16. Germany are one of the stronger teams on this side of the draw and should have too much for Paraguay, who qualified as one of the best third-placed teams.

Where? Philadelphia, July 4

Who could France play in the quarter-final?

The most likely quarter-final opponent for France is the winner of the Netherlands - Morocco game in the round of 32. Co-hosts Canada could also be waiting if they can spring a surprise and make it through to the final eight.

Where? Boston, July 9

Who could France play in the semi-final?

If France make it to the semi-final they could come up against the strongest teams from their half of the bracket, including reigning European champions Spain and Portugal. Co-hosts United States are also in contention there, but it would take a massive effort for the US to make it to the semis.

Where? Dallas, July 14

Who could France play in the World Cup final?

If France get to a third straight World Cup final they will come up against the winning team to emerge from the other side of the bracket. That includes the likes of Brazil, England but the most tantalizing prospect would be a rematch against Lionel Messi and Argentina, who beat France at this stage four years ago.

Where? New York/New Jersey, July 19