Brazil vs France- Combined XI for the international friendly | OneFootball

France and Brazil meet in a high-profile friendly tonight, as one of international football’s most glamorous fixtures returns to the calendar.

It is a clash between two nations that define footballing excellence, boasting a combined seven World Cup titles between them.

Arsenal duo William Saliba and Gabriel, who would have been sure starters in this elite side, are notably absent from the lineup as both pulled out of international duty due to injuries.

With both sides finalising preparations for the 2026 Mundial, the sheer depth of talent in Foxborough remains staggering. Ahead of tonight’s encounter, we’ve put together our Brazil and France Combined XI.

Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan – France

Mike Maignan has established himself as the undisputed successor to Hugo Lloris for Les Bleus. The AC Milan shot-stopper combines elite reflex saves with a commanding presence during defensive transitions.

He currently edges the battle for the gloves, particularly with Alisson Becker forced to pull out of the Brazil squad. Maignan’s distribution will be vital for France to bypass a high Brazilian press in Massachusetts.

Right-back: Malo Gusto – France

Malo Gusto earns the nod following his remarkably consistent form in the Premier League this season. The Chelsea defender provides a perfect balance between defensive recovery and overlapping threat.

His tactical discipline has seen him climb the pecking order under Didier Deschamps. Gusto faces a fascinating duel against Brazil’s explosive left-sided attackers in this heavyweight pre-World Cup friendly.

Centre-back: Dayot Upamecano – France

The Bayern Munich defender remains a cornerstone of the French backline despite fierce competition for places. Dayot Upamecano possesses the rare combination of recovery pace and elite ball-playing ability.

He has matured significantly during the 2025-26 campaign, cutting out the errors that previously hindered his game. With William Saliba and Jules Koundé both unavailable, Upamecano will lead the defensive line tonight.

Centre-back: Marquinhos – Brazil

Marquinhos remains the defensive heartbeat of the Seleção as they navigate tactical transitions under Carlo Ancelotti.

The veteran defender brings invaluable leadership and elite positional sense to this combined unit. His reading of the game allows him to snuff out danger before it develops into a clear chance. Marquinhos continues to prove that he belongs among the world’s elite central defenders.

Left-back: Wesley – Brazil

The Flamengo starlet has enjoyed a meteoric rise, attracting significant interest from Europe’s leading clubs this month. Wesley offers a dynamic, modern profile at full-back, characterised by his relentless energy and crossing accuracy.

He has transitioned seamlessly into the senior international setup following defensive withdrawals like Alex Sandro. His inclusion reflects Brazil’s continued ability to produce high-calibre attacking defenders.

Midfield: Aurélien Tchouaméni – France

Aurélien Tchouaméni has become the tactical anchor for both Real Madrid and the French national team.

The midfielder dictates the tempo of games with his exceptional passing range and defensive anticipation.

He provides the necessary shield that allows the more creative players in this XI to flourish. Tchouaméni’s physical presence in the middle third will be a deciding factor tomorrow.

Midfield: Casemiro – Brazil

Casemiro remains a world-class operator whose experience is vital for the balance of the Brazilian midfield.

Despite the emergence of younger talents, his ability to break up play remains unmatched at the highest level.

He has shown renewed vigour during the second half of the 2025-26 season. Casemiro’s leadership in the engine room remains a prerequisite for the Seleção’s success.

Midfield: Raphinha – Brazil

Barcelona’s Raphinha occupies the creative slot, having been a consistent performer despite the Seleção’s recent struggles in qualifying.

His ability to link play and deliver dangerous crosses makes him a focal point of Ancelotti’s tactical reset.

Raphinha brings a high work rate and technical quality that complements the more defensive-minded midfielders in this side.

Right-wing: Michael Olise – France

Michael Olise has reached a new level since his high-profile move to Bayern Munich last summer. The winger possesses a sublime left foot and the ability to beat defenders with deceptive ease.

Olise has contributed significantly to France’s goal output during their near-flawless World Cup qualifying campaign. His set-piece delivery remains a potent weapon for Les Bleus in any match.

Left-wing: Vinícius Júnior – Brazil

Vinícius Júnior is arguably the most devastating individual player in world football when afforded space to run. The Real Madrid star has become Brazil’s primary offensive weapon in the absence of Neymar.

His electric pace and improved finishing make him a constant threat during counter-attacking transitions. Stopping Vinícius will be the primary focus of the French defensive strategy.

Forward: Kylian Mbappé – France

Kylian Mbappé continues to shatter goalscoring records as he prepares to lead France into another major tournament cycle.

The captain sits just two goals shy of Olivier Giroud’s all-time French scoring record of 57. Mbappé remains the ultimate game-changer, capable of scoring from any position across the front line. He is the first name on any global team sheet.

Substitutes

Ederson, Theo Hernández, Bremer, Ibrahima Konaté, Ousmane Dembélé, Rayan Cherki, João Pedro, Matheus Cunha.

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