France wrapped up 2025 with a 3-1 win over Azerbaijan in Baku on Sunday evening, despite a poor start. Already qualified for the 2026 World Cup after beating Ukraine, Didier Deschamps' side dominated after conceding an early goal. Several substitutes shone in this dead-rubber match.
In a dead-rubber match in Baku, France conceded in the 4th minute through Renat Dadashov, who outmaneuvered Lucas Hernandez to beat Lucas Chevalier on his debut. This goal, the fastest conceded by a French goalkeeper since 1935, irked Didier Deschamps, who made 11 changes from the previous game.
The Bleus responded swiftly. Malo Gusto, involved in the opener, redeemed himself with an assist for Jean-Philippe Mateta's header equalizer (17th), his second goal in three caps. Gusto assisted again for Maghnes Akliouche's first France goal (30th), tapping in a cross at the near post. Before halftime, an Akliouche corner rebounded off Shakhrudin Magomedaliyev for an own goal (45+1).
In the second half, France managed their two-goal lead against the 123rd-ranked Azerbaijan side. Christopher Nkunku and Warren Zaïre-Emery were solid in midfield, while substitutes Rayan Cherki and Florian Thauvin had little impact. The Hernandez brothers struggled, with Theo ineffective going forward.
This win brings France's qualifying record to five victories and one draw, underscoring their dominance. The World Cup draw is set for December 5 in Washington, ahead of the tournament in America from June 11 to July 19, 2026.