Euro 2024 qualifier: Ireland v France - preview, time, team selection, ticket info and TV details
The Republic of Ireland begin their UEFA Euro 2024 qualification campaign against France at the Aviva Stadium on Monday, March 27. Kick-off is at 7.45pm.
The Boys in Green are in Group B along with the Netherlands, Greece, Gibraltar and a French outfit that were finalists at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar - losing out to Argentina in a penalty shoot-out.
PREVIEW
Stephen Kenny's side are preparing for their first competitive fixture of 2023 after hosting Latvia in an international friendly on Wednesday.
Cardiff City's Callum O'Dowda and Brighton attacker Evan Ferguson bagged two early goals in Dublin before Latvia got back on level terms at the stroke of half time thanks to two long-range efforts.
It will be interesting to see what team selection Kenny goes with on Monday against much stronger opposition, headed by PSG star Kylian Mbappé who has been announced as France's new captain.
Wednesday's man of the match Will Smallbone looks to have played himself into contention for the qualifier after a fine performance on his international debut.
It wouldn't be surprising to see Kenny stick with the tried and trusted midfielders that he has relied on in the past, such as Burnley's Josh Cullen, West Brom's Jayson Molumby and potentially Derby's Jason Knight. Smallbone should play a part in the fixture one would think - he has shown the ability that he possesses.
As for the attack, most will agree that Ferguson has to start following his first international goal - the first of many Irish fans will hope. Still 18, the striker has proven himself at the highest level, scoring in the Premier League and producing impressive centre-forward performances week in, week out.
Ogbene's pace will be needed to stretch a strong French defence and while Johnston is only new to the Irish squad, the winger has the ability to make an impact off the bench. The Celtic man displayed a bit of magic in his 25-minute cameo against Latvia.
TICKET INFORMATION
The first home qualifier of the campaign is sold out. Ireland's next competitive home outing is against Gibraltar on June 19.
TV DETAILS
ODDS
Republic of Ireland 5/1
Draw 14/5
France 8/15