France Secures Nations League Quarter-Final Spot After Frustrating Goalless Draw Against Israel

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France secured a spot in the Nations League quarter-finals, despite a goalless draw against Israel at the Stade de France. The French team, missing Kylian Mbappe due to Didier Deschamps' decision, faced a resilient Israeli defence. Israel earned their first point in Group A2 through this performance.

Daniel Peretz was instrumental for Israel, denying early attempts from Randal Kolo Muani and N'Golo Kante as France controlled possession. In the 37th minute, Dor Turgeman's flick from a free-kick almost led to a goal, but Raz Shlomo couldn't connect at the far post.

Ibrahima Konate had a chance early in the second half but headed over the bar. Clear opportunities were scarce for France, who appeared disjointed without Mbappe. Their best chances came during stoppage time when Marcus Thuram's header went straight to Peretz, followed by Christopher Nkunku's shot being saved just before the final whistle.

Despite not scoring, France advanced alongside Italy to the last eight. Meanwhile, Israel remained at the bottom of the group, trailing Belgium by three points.

Without Mbappe for a second consecutive international break, France found it difficult to convert their dominance into goals. They managed 24 shots with an expected goals (xG) value of 2.31 compared to Israel's three shots worth 0.05 xG. Despite hitting the target eight times, they couldn't get past Peretz.

This match highlighted France's reliance on Mbappe for offensive success. Although they dominated possession and created numerous chances, their inability to finish proved costly against a determined Israeli side.