France's Defence Worries Despite Olise Hat-trick Ahead of World Cup

France defeated Northern Ireland 3-1 on Monday evening, carried by Michael Olise’s hat-trick, but the display was not enough to reassure as the World Cup looms. Above all in defence, the shortcomings observed over recent weeks were exposed once more.

The figures illustrate the fragility of Didier Deschamps’ squad: since the victory over Azerbaijan (3-1) on 16 November, France has conceded at least one goal in each of its five subsequent matches — its longest such streak since late 2022. Against Northern Ireland, despite being far from a top-tier opponent, the flanks were again put under pressure. Jules Koundé had a start below his usual standard, while Théo Hernandez also raised questions.

Beyond defence, attacking play fuelled debate, notably Ousmane Dembélé’s positioning as a false 9. Deschamps’ choice to deploy him centrally behind the attack did not convince: outside this atypical role, integrating him effectively into the system remains a tactical puzzle for the manager.

The midfield also came under scrutiny. The goal conceded against Northern Ireland stemmed from a loss of possession in midfield, revealing the absence of a solid defensive screen. The two central midfielders, isolated, struggle to provide sufficient cover, which directly exposes the defence whenever the opponent regains the ball in dangerous areas.

The concern is above all collective: while individuals can shine intermittently, overall cohesion remains the weak point of a France team approaching the World Cup with certainties still to build.