The Latest Breaking News from Olivier Giroud

FRANCE 4-1 AUSTRALIA: Kylian Mbappe scored a fine header and assisted a goal for Olivier Giroud in the second half, but it was the first half efforts of a much-maligned duo which made the difference

France fell behind early but surged by the Socceroos thanks in part to its 36-year-old striker and his star-studded teammates.

What’s in store for Argentina vs Saudi Arabia, Denmark vs Tunisia, Mexico vs Poland, and France vs Australia in Qatar.

France are overwhelming favourites in their opening clash against relative minnows Australia, especially given the presence of the mighty Kylian Mbappé. But Les Bleus fans can be forgiven a few jitters – as a range of injuries afflicts the squad and the curse of World Cup title-holders looms large.

France have a squad bursting with quality but recent performances suggest Didier Deschamps is still trying to find the right formula between youthful promise and World Cup-winning experience

The PSG forward leads a weaker Les Bleus side than the one that lifted the trophy four years ago

Neither of Les Bleus’ two World Cup triumphs contained a goal from their main striker at the time

Everything you need to know as the reigning champions start their title defence in Group D

Les Bleus’ hopes of emulating Brazil may rest on their superstar forward avoiding a repeat of Pelé’s fate in 1962

Even without the injured Karim Benzema, defending World Cup champion France has plenty of attacking power. Most teams would love to have either Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann or Olivier Giroud in their forward line, let alone all three. They have 119 international goals between them, plus an abundance of speed,…

France boss Didier Deschamps is having to rejig his frontline after Karim Benzema was ruled out of the World Cup through injury with a new role for Kylian Mbappe