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Why Is N'Golo Kanté Not Playing Today for France vs. Sweden at the World Cup?
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- Why Is N'Golo Kanté Not Playing Today for France vs. Sweden at the World Cup?
France will play Sweden in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday, June 30. France is on a winning streak early in the tournament after winning all three of their Group I games.
Sweden reached the Round of 32 after finishing third in Group F with four points after one win, one draw, and one loss.
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France will be fielding a strong lineup against Sweden, but once again, N'Golo Kante is not in the starting lineup for the match.
Kante has not played for France in the 2026 World Cup despite being available.
N'Golo Kante #13 of France during warm ups before a FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match against Norway at Boston Stadium.Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Kante was part of the France team for the match against Norway a few days ago. Kante has been benched for the last three games, but there is concern about his fitness.
Kante is reportedly not injured, but he missed the group training sessions during the last two matches due to knee pain.
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According to head coach Didier Deschamps , the physical issue "is not muscular, but he has a problem, and it will still be tight for tomorrow."
In his place, Aurelien Tchouameni and Adrien Rabiot have been the midfield duo. Kouadio Kone has also played in the midfield and played the full match against Iraq and against Norway.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jun 30, 2026, where it first appeared in the Soccer section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
