Mateta Shines as France Subs Lead Comeback Against Azerbaijan

France concluded their World Cup qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Azerbaijan, showcasing the potential of their bench players in a crucial Group D fixture. With a significantly weakened lineup featuring 11 changes from their previous outing, Didier Deschamps put immense trust in understudies. Although Azerbaijan grabbed an early lead, France demonstrated resilience, with key performers among the replacements helping secure the win.

The match was anything but straightforward for the visitors. Azerbaijan, buoyed by a fourth-minute goal from Renat Dadashov, kept France on the edge for the first 16 minutes. However, Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta steadied the ship with a powerful header from Malo Gusto's cross, restoring parity. Despite further efforts, including a deflected shot ruled out for handball by Christopher Nkunku and a Maghnes Akliouche strike, France needed a moment of despair from the hosts – when Khephren Thuram's shot was poked in off the goalkeeper – to truly seize control before halftime.

The second half saw France comfortably dominate, with the depleted Azerbaijani side showing signs of fatigue. Goalscorer Akliouche and the ever-dangerous Thuram provided attacking threats, while Mateta delivered a commanding performance with his goal and overall contribution. While Hugo Ekitike struggled for influence, others like Lucas Chevalier, Malo Gusto, and Ibrahima Konate proved Deschamps's faith in them was well-placed. The victory ensures France's spot in the next phase of World Cup qualifying, with Mateta emerging as a standout performer.

**France Player Ratings vs. Azerbaijan (2-1 Aggregated)**

**Goalkeeper & Defence**
* Lucas Chevalier (6/10): Made a notable debut after many call-ups, saving one penalty and generally solid in the early stages.
* Malo Gusto (8/10): Regained momentum after conceding early. Two assists and a strong attacking contribution were vital, despite a goal being chalked off.
* Ibrahima Konate (7/10): A calming presence at the back, commanding the air and looking assured despite his Liverpool season.
* Lucas Hernandez (7/10): Impressive defensively and in linking up with teammates, handling pressure effectively.
* Theo Hernandez (7/10): Provided defensive solidity and decent crossing, though perhaps less electrifying than his full-back counterpart.

**Midfield**
* Khéphren Thuram (8/10): An energetic display, creating chances and showing pace, though a debut goal eluded him.
* Warren Zaire-Emery (7/10): Quick feet helped France escape trouble, but his freedom to roam was somewhat restricted.
* Christopher Nkunku (6/10): A mixed bag, displaying flashes of quality but often lacking consistent impact and decision-making.

**Attack**
* Maghnes Akliouche (7/10): A promising night for the young attacker, who linked up well and netted his international debut.
* Jean-Philippe Mateta (8/10): A commanding performance. Scored decisively, held the ball effectively, and was instrumental in France's success. A potential World Cup contributor.
* Hugo Ekitike (5/10): Inconsistent in this specific match. Struggled to find rhythm or impact, suggesting the role might be better suited when leading the line.

**Substitutes & Manager**
* Rayan Cherki (5/10): Made little impact in limited action.
* Florian Thauvin (6/10): Did well defensively when asked but lacked consistent involvement.
* Bradley Barcola (6/10): Didn't have his usual influential night against determined opposition.
* Didier Deschamps (7/10): Successfully fielded a largely untested side, who learned quickly and eventually imposed themselves, even if early defending and finishing were concerns.