• Karim Benzema ruled out with thigh injury. Defending champion France will be without the Ballon d’Or winner, who has been struggling with an injured left thigh. He took part in his first full training with Les Bleus on Saturday at their base at the home stadium of Qatari champion Al Sadd but was forced to leave the session. France was already without injured Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante, its starting midfield pairing when it won the 2018 World Cup. RB Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku had to pull out after suffering a knee injury in France’s final training session before departing for Qatar.
SUBSCRIBE TO KEEP READING
Start for $0 & enjoy free unlimited access for 30 days.
- Daily TV listings for U.S. and global soccer.
- Inside access to USA’s 2026 World Cup prep.
- Exclusive interviews with players and coaches.
- Expert analysis of top soccer headlines.
- Cancel anytime.
Already have an account? Sign in here.
CHECK OUT MORE STORIES
Not ready to subscribe? Sign up here for our free newsletter.
Already have an account? Sign in here.