The mighty USMNT will kick off its 2024 Paris Olympics journey against the formidable France. Both sides are among the favorites to go all the way and win the gold medal. However, the victor of this clash on late Wednesday night at the Stade Vélodrome, Marseille would eventually clear that picture. Along with a pair of veterans, ex-Yugoslavia youth international Marko Mitrović leads the young US team.
He is tasked with the responsibility of leading the Star and Stripes to surpass the group stages, something they haven’t done since 2000. Unfortunately, having crashed out of the group stages in 2008, they failed to qualify for the 2012, 2016, and 2020 editions.
On the other hand, France too has a point to prove in the summer games. They failed to qualify for the 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016 editions, but made it to the Tokyo 2021 edition, only to return home by crashing within the group stages. However, former New York Red Bulls forward and CF Montréal manager Thierry Henry can make a change. The French icon will look to make an impression on the soccer world by dictating his side with his tactical masterclass to the gold medal, which Les Blues won back in Los Angeles, in 1984.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Meanwhile, the last time, they hosted the prestigious tournament was in 1900, when their soccer team won the silver medal.
Polls of the day
Poll 1 of 5
Who will be the standout player in the France vs. USMNT match?
Kylian Mbappe
Christian Pulisic
Antoine Griezmann
Weston McKennie
Who should represent Spain in the Paris Olympics?
Carlos Alcaraz
Rafael Nadal
Both
Neither
Whats your Perspective on:
Can the USMNT pull off an upset against France, or are we in for a reality check?
Have an interesting take?
Do you think David Taylor can bounce back from this latest setback?
Absolutely
Not a chance
Maybe, but it will be tough
Only time will tell
Do you think Rafael Nadal will end his career on a high at the Paris Olympics?
Absolutely
No way
It's possible
Too early to tell
France vs USMNT: Potential lineups for the Paris Olympics
France predicted starting XI: Restes; Sildillia, Lukeba, Bade, Truffert; Millot, Kone, Chotard; Olise; Mateta, Lacazette
USMNT predicted starting XI: Schulte; Harriel, Robinson, Zimmerman, Wiley; McGlynn, Tessmann; Booth, Aaronson, Paredes; McGuire
Head-to-head stats and prediction
What’s your perspective on:
Can the USMNT pull off an upset against France, or are we in for a reality check?
Have an interesting take?
Total matches played: 1
Won by France: 1
Won by USMNT: 0
Draw: 0
France in the last 5 matches: W-D-W-W-D
USMNT in the last 5 matches: W-D-L-W-D
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
There’s no doubt that either side would look to clinch a victory. Both sides have a lot to prove for clinching the crucial three points and can stun each other. However, it’s Theirry Henry’s side who will have the upper hand over Marko Mitrović and Co.
We reckon the score will be France 2-0 USMNT.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
How to watch France vs USMNT on TV channels and livestream?
Fans in the United States can catch the action live on TV by tuning into USA Network, NBC, E!, and CNBC. As for the live-streaming audience, Peacock, NBC Sports, and NBCOlympics.com will do the job. Meanwhile, Eurosport has got fans covered in the UK, with the live-streaming option available for the English crowd on Discovery+ and BBC iPlayer. For Spanish commentary, you can tune in to Telemundo.
Debate
Can the USMNT pull off an upset against France, or are we in for a reality check?