A new chapter begins for France on Friday as Zinedine Zidane takes charge of Les Bleus for the first time, with his reign starting with a challenging trip to Türkiye in the opening game of the 2026–27 UEFA Nations League.
Zidane’s appointment brings an end to Didier Deschamps’ remarkable 14-year spell in the France dugout. Now, the former Real Madrid boss faces the immediate task of getting his international career off to a winning start.
The 54-year-old has included several new faces in his squad during this international break, but when France take the field in Türkiye, the team is expected to be built around some of its most established stars.
Kylian Mbappé remains the headline name. The France captain will lead the attack, supported by a squad packed with world-class talent and plenty of experience on the biggest stages.
For Türkiye, the match represents an opportunity to make a statement. The team will be looking to recover from a disappointing World Cup campaign and build momentum under their current setup.
Türkiye can take some encouragement from their recent record against France, having avoided defeat in their previous two meetings. However, Zidane’s arrival and the quality available to France mean the visitors will enter the contest as clear favourites.
Türkiye vs. France: Match Details
- Venue: Turka Kocaeli Stadium, İzmit, Türkiye
- Date: Friday, September 25
- Kick-off: 7:45 p.m. BST / 2:45 p.m. ET / 11:45 a.m. PT
- Referee: Felix Zwayer (Germany)
- VAR: Christian Dingert (Germany)
How to Watch Türkiye vs. France
Fans in different countries will have several options for watching Zidane’s first match as France manager.
In the United States, the game will be available on ViX and fuboTV, while viewe
rs in Canada can watch through DAZN Canada and fuboTV Canada.
In Mexico, Sky Sports Mexico, Sky+ and izzi will carry the match.
UK viewers can watch the game through Amazon Prime Video, with access available for £2.49.
What Comes Next for Türkiye and France?
The opening Nations League fixture is only the beginning of a demanding run for both teams.
Türkiye face a particularly difficult stretch, with Italy visiting next Monday before Türkiye travel to face the Azzurri a week later. Sandwiched between those fixtures is an away meeting with Belgium next Friday.
France also have a busy schedule ahead. Zidane’s side will travel to Belgium next Monday before welcoming them for the return fixture the following week. France will also host Italy next Friday.
With Italy and Belgium joining Türkiye and France in League A’s Group 1, every point could prove crucial.
For Zidane, however, the immediate focus is simple: begin his France tenure with a victory. After 14 years of Deschamps, the Zidane era is finally ready to begin.
