New Zealand U23 vs France U23 Prediction: France U23 is expected to secure a 3-0 victory over New Zealand U23 in their Olympic Games Group A match, showcasing their superior attacking prowess and home advantage.
The Olympic Games men’s football tournament reaches a crucial juncture as New Zealand’s U23 side faces tournament hosts France at the Orange Vélodrome in Marseille. This Group A clash could determine which team advances to the knockout stages.
Match Details
Date: July 30, 2024 Time: 17:00 UTC Venue: Orange Vélodrome, Marseille, France
Match Preview
France enters this match as heavy favorites, having already secured qualification for the knockout stages. Their attacking prowess has been on full display, with impressive victories over the USA and Guinea.
New Zealand, meanwhile, faces a must-win situation if they hope to advance. Their opening win against Guinea was promising, but the heavy defeat to the USA exposed some defensive frailties.
The key battle will likely be in midfield, where France’s talented trio of Millot, Kone, and Chotard will look to dominate possession and create chances for their potent forward line. New Zealand will need to be disciplined defensively and look to hit France on the counter-attack.
Projected New Zealand U23 vs France U23 Lineups and Team News
New Zealand U23
New Zealand enters this match with no reported injuries, giving coach Darren Bazeley a full squad to choose from. After their 4-1 defeat to the USA, the Kiwis may look to make some changes to their starting XI.
Projected New Zealand U23 lineup (4-3-3): Sutton, Surman, Bell, Garbett, Bindon, Randall, Boxall, Singh, Paulsen, Waine, Bayliss.
Players to watch: Jesse Randall impressed as a substitute against the USA and could be in line for a start. Ben Waine will be crucial in leading the attack.
France U23
France, led by legendary striker Thierry Henry, have no injury concerns heading into this match. With qualification secured, Henry may opt to rotate his squad slightly.
Projected France U23 lineup (4-3-3): Restes, Truffert, Millot, Sildillia, Kone, Chotard, Olise, Mateta, Bade, Lukeba, Lacazette.
Players to watch: Michael Olise has been in scintillating form, contributing three goal involvements in two matches. Alexandre Lacazette provides a wealth of experience up front.
Player Availability
- New Zealand U23: • No reported injuries • Full squad available for selection
- France U23: • No injury concerns • All players fit and ready for the match
Current Group A Standings
- France U23 – 6 points
- USA U23 – 3 points
- New Zealand U23 – 3 points
- Guinea U23 – 0 points
Form Guide
New Zealand U23
- Last 5 matches: W L W L D
- Olympic record: W 2-1 vs Guinea, L 1-4 vs USA
France U23
- Last 5 matches: W W D W W
- Olympic record: W 3-0 vs USA, W 1-0 vs Guinea
Head-to-Head
This will be the first-ever meeting between New Zealand and France at the U23 level in a competitive match.
Where to Watch
USA: UNIVERSO, Peacock, NBC Sports App
France: France 3, Eurosport 2 France, Eurosport Player France, Molotov, Free, MAX
New Zealand: Sky Sport 4 NZ, SKY Go NZ, Sky Sport NOW
United Kingdom: discovery+, EuroSport Player UK, discovery+ App
Canada: CBC Sports App, cbcsports.ca
Australia: Stan Sport, 9Now
Germany: Eurosport Player Deutschland Spain: Eurosport Player Spain
Italy: Eurosport Player Italy
Netherlands: Eurosport Player Netherlands, MAX
Japan: TVer
Note: Streaming services and channels may require a subscription or authentication.
Who Will Win?
While New Zealand has shown they can be competitive, France’s quality and home advantage make them clear favorites. Expect the hosts to control possession and create numerous chances.
New Zealand U23 vs France U23 Prediction: France U23 3-0 New Zealand U23
France should have too much firepower for New Zealand, but the Kiwis will likely put up a spirited fight as they push for a result to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.
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