Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Nations League match.
France head into the new Nations League season carrying the weight of high expectations after a glittering 2024, where they claimed both Olympic gold and the Nations League title. They kick off the new campaign against a distinctly average Argentina side.
Argentina
Argentina were one of the few South American teams to schedule friendlies in preparation for the Nations League. They faced Cuba twice and came away with two victories, although the second match revealed cracks. After going 2-0 up, Argentina were pushed to a fifth set before scraping through in the tiebreak.
France
France were nothing short of dominant throughout last season. In the Olympic playoffs, they dismantled both Italy and Poland — two of the top five teams in the world — without dropping a set. They have remained largely unchanged since then, with all key players available and in top shape. That level of continuity and form should allow the reigning champions to ease into the tournament without major hiccups.
Argentina vs France Prediction
France are rightly installed as favourites, but bookmakers seem to be underestimating their margin of victory. Argentina may be a respectable side, but they aren’t equipped to match the French point-for-point.
