Ukraine v France: First Leg Tip

Much has been made about the fact that 1998 world champions France have slipped into the play-offs but in truth that was highly probable from the moment they were drawn alongside mighty Spain in qualifying.

Les Bleus finished three points off the pace despite drawing 1-1 in Madrid; a loss in the return match plus a draw in Georgia ensured they were always going to be runners-up.

Coach Didier Deschamps will surely be concerned that his team haven’t beaten a single opponent of note throughout 2013. There were friendly defeats to Brazil, Germany and Uruguay in a run of one win in seven matches up until September. France did at least respond at that point by firing 13 goals in three victories against Belarus, Australia and Finland. They are 7/5 (Boylesports) to win on Friday.

However, a trip to Kiev in November will provide a much tougher challenge. Ukraine ran England very close in Group H, finishing just one point back after taking 19 points from a possible 21 to close out their campaign. They drew home and away with the Three Lions, and at 9/4 (Ladbrokes), a share of the spoils looks the most likely first leg outcome here.