Turkiye vs France – Predicted lineup and team news

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The Football Faithful

·25 September 2026

Turkiye vs France – Predicted lineup and team news

Turkiye and France are set to face off in their first UEFA Nations League A match of the campaign on Friday evening at the Turca Arac Muayene Kocaeli Stadium.

Turkiye come into this opener hoping to recover from their surprising elimination at the World Cup. Under Vincenzo Montella, the side has developed a clear, attacking approach, finishing their June schedule with an exciting 3–2 win over the United States at the tournament. Prior to that, they went down by slim margins against Australia and Paraguay, but their ability to create and convert chances has remained a standout feature.

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Turkiye team news

Turkiye faces their UEFA Nations League opener with a significantly weakened squad, as injuries and suspensions have taken a heavy toll on Vincenzo Montella’s team.

The hosts will miss key figures including captain Hakan Calhanoglu and promising forward Kenan Yıldız, both sidelined due to injury.

The defensive unit has been hit hardest: Mert Müldür is out with a meniscus problem, while Kaan Ayhan and Çağlar Söyüncü are also unavailable.

Compounding selection woes, Samet Akaydin is serving a suspension, and Yunus Akgün along with Deniz Gül remain uncertain ahead of kickoff due to late fitness concerns.

On a brighter note, central defender Abdulkerim Bardakcı returns from suspension and is expected to bring much-needed stability to the backline.

Fully fit Real Madrid standout Arda Guler is set to lead the charge, aiming to break down the French defence in partnership with Kerem Akturkoglu, forming an energetic and creative front line.