The Ukrainian national team suffered a defeat to France in an away match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The game ended 4–0 in favour of the hosts.
This was reported by the UAF.
In the fifth qualifying match held on 13 November at Paris’ Parc des Princes, Serhiy Rebrov’s side were unable to withstand the pressure from France and conceded four goals.
Compared to the previous match against Azerbaijan a month earlier, the coaching staff made six changes, opting for a five-defender formation. The first half was played under France’s territorial dominance: the hosts controlled the ball and created chances, while Ukraine defended compactly. The most dangerous moment came late in the half when Barcola’s shot deflected off Trubin’s gloves and hit the post.
Ukraine failed to register a single shot in the opening 45 minutes, while France had ten. Early in the second half, Mykhavko stepped on Olise’s foot in the penalty area, conceding a spot kick. Kylian Mbappé converted it confidently. France continued to dominate: Trubin made several key saves, but in the 76th minute Olise doubled the lead with a precise strike. Mbappé later completed his brace, and two minutes before full time Ékitiké sealed the 4–0 scoreline.
After five rounds Ukraine remain on seven points and sit third in the group. The next match for Rebrov’s team will take place on 16 November in Warsaw against Iceland, where only a victory will keep Ukraine’s play-off hopes alive.
The final tournament of the 2026 World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with 16 European teams qualifying. Ukraine’s opponents in Group D are France, Azerbaijan, and Iceland. The Ukrainians lost to France in their first match, drew with Azerbaijan, defeated Iceland, and beat Azerbaijan for the second time. Rebrov’s team will play their final qualifying match on November 16 at home against Iceland.