Out of form France arrive in Vienna
Austria welcome France to Vienna in a strong position in Group 1 of League A, as we move into the second half of this international period.
France have been very disappointing to only pick up one point from their opening two Nations League encounters against Denmark and Croatia, but it is a difficult time to play these games for a large portion of the French squad.
France are reigning World Cup and Nations League champions under Didier Deschamps and even though they have been slow out of the blocks, they will remain favourites to progress with four games still to play in the competition.
Ralf Rangnick is an eye-catching appointment in the Austria dugout and it will be interesting to see how he gets on such a high class team.
Background
Austria’s midfield contingent stands out compared to the rest of their team, the trio of Xaver Schlager, Konrad Laimer and Marcel Sabitzer are capable of mixing with the best, and they will need to against a very accomplished French team.
All eyes will be on Aurelien Tchouameni after completing his move from Monaco to Real Madrid, with Christopher Nkunku and Matteo Guendouzi also exciting up and coming talents in the side.
Heading towards their World Cup defence, it feels like a lot of spots are up for grabs in the France starting XI, and for that reason these fixtures take on more importance in preparation for the tournament.
France have an embarrassment of talent in the final third and they will pose a lot of challenges for the Austria backline, but they are not hitting their straps for whatever reason at the moment, providing an opportunity for an upset for the hosts.
Goals?
Part of my angle for this encounter, the fatigue in the French squad will open up spaces for Austria.
Austria have scored in eight of ten.
Austria have conceded in eight of ten.
Austria have seen both teams score in six of ten.
Austria have seen over 2.5 goals in seven of ten.
France have scored in all of their last 22.
France have conceded in six of ten.
France have seen both teams score in six of ten.
France have seen over 2.5 goals in six of ten.
France are still very strong favourites but I am happy to back the hosts to get on the scoresheet to find some value in a close to evens selection.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
1-1.