Didier Deschamps’ France, up there among a star-studded list of favourites to win the tournament, begin their Group C campaign on Saturday lunchtime.
Their first, and arguably least challenging, opponents are Australia. Though the rejuvenated Socceroos will have something to say about that.
The French were lauded for their incredible squad depth long before the tournament. Strength and respectable options in almost every position is something Deschamps has been blessed with and, upon first glance at least, their youth can combine with experience to create a prosperous combination.
Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and N’Golo Kante are all eagerly anticipating their first World Cup.
Their freshness, and motivation to capture hearts of France and the world, can work in Les Bleus’ favour.
Although their seemingly never-ending list of talented individuals makes them a smart prediction to venture deep in the competition, they often falter and recent tournaments indicate crucial mistakes at key moments.
2010 in South Africa was a disaster the French are still looking to bury. And four years later they didn’t exactly exorcise the demons with another modest, underwhelming, display.
They are back again with another chance to glisten, and surely this time they need to turn heads.
Australia hope to spring a surprise
More from World Cup
- A World Cup of firsts proves future of women’s soccer is bright
- Spain win the Women’s World Cup
- USWNT underperforms but squeaks through to knockout rounds
- Dutch expose USWNT’s vulnerabilities in 1-1 draw
- Australia forced to start World Cup campaign without Sam Kerr
Dutch manager Bert van Marwijk has orchestrated an impressive run ahead of the World Cup, giving Australia a solid foundation before an ominous-looking test.
Wins over Czech Republic and Hungary in recent warm-ups, and a well-earned draw against Colombia in March, stand the Aussies in good stead.
That doesn’t mean to say they are fully equipped to trouble France. Granted, it has been a bright spell for the Socceroos, but the World Cup is a different matter entirely.
Aaron Mooy and Andrew Nabbout are the latest of Australia’s new, auspicious crop of talent and they emerge to succeed the stoic Tim Cahill, who has been the long-standing cult hero for Down Under. He still makes the squad, however is hardly full of the energy of old.
Australia, should they lose to France, could find themselves desperate by the second game. Denmark are another arduous opponent, which means getting off to a strong start could be essential.
Prediction: France to justify status as resounding favourites
Even though the Aussies have had excellent preparations and look in better shape than four years ago, it is still incredibly difficult to see past a comfortable France victory.
The wealth of quality across the field means it will be tough for Australia to get a foothold anywhere on the pitch, and Les Bleus’ lethal attacking options should foil the underdogs’ plans to absorb pressure.
Antoine Griezmann proved his goal-scoring ability at international level two years ago as one of the stars. He might be sniffing blood here, too, and he can aid France in gaining an early confidence raise.
Australia will try and make it a frustrating one for France, but simply won’t be able to. A comprehensive 3-0 on the cards here.
Next: Manchester United end interest in Tottenham star
Can France get off to a good start in the World Cup?