Austria – France

More than 2.5 goals have been scored in Austria’s last six matches. Will it continue against France?

Austria take on France at home on Friday 10 June. The reigning world champions have been surprising so far. A home defeat against Denmark was followed by a draw against Croatia. Concentration was again lacking in the closing stages. France were in the lead throughout the game but conceded victory in the 83rd minute. Failure in Austria would already close the team's path to the Nations League final. There is mounting pressure on Deschamps at home. The team failed at the EURO, then had problems in World Cup qualifying. That said, the team has the best selection of players in Europe. Mbappe missed the game against Croatia but might take the field this time. Austria are ushering in a new era for Ralf Rangnick. The renowned specialist made a convincing start - defeating Croatia. A minimal defeat against Denmark followed, but with spectacular play. Rangnick's principles are immediately apparent. The team is not afraid to use high pressing. This approach has its pluses and minuses, but much more often provokes a game on the total. The Danes were deft at getting out from under the Austrian pressure. At the same time, there were moments when mistakes were very close. Austria won't give up risky play against France, although certain adjustments towards caution are still possible. Rangnick has been quite pragmatic at Manchester United. Another issue is that in Austria, the coach has much more control over the implementation of ideas. All the players unconditionally follow instructions. The bookmakers are rightly pointing to France as the clear favourite. The odds are already at 1.80. There is even a slight underestimation of Austria. As for the total odds, though, they pose some questions. The match may well be productive. Austria have scored five goals against two top-ten ranked teams under Ragnick. France have significant defensive problems, based on their recent encounters. The team has conceded a lot in qualifying, and there was a game with a conceded goal from South Africa in a friendly. The tournament position obliges France to take risks and go forward. The match may well please us with goals. There are several factors that will speak for it: Austria's high pressing pressure, France's motivation and the two opponents' penchant for risk. More than 2.5 goals have been scored in Austria’s last six matches.