---
title: "Lucas Digne Helps France Into World Cup Knockouts As Aston Villa Watch On"
canonical: "https://readastonvilla.com/2026/06/24/lucas-digne-helps-france-into-world-cup-knockouts-as-aston-villa-watch-on/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "ryan"
section: "Aston Villa News"
published: "2026-06-24T01:40:00Z"
modified: "2026-06-24T01:40:00Z"
---

# Lucas Digne Helps France Into World Cup Knockouts As Aston Villa Watch On

**Lucas Digne started for France as Didier Deschamps’ side beat Iraq 3-0 and secured their place in the World Cup Round of 32 with a game to spare.**

The Aston Villa left-back was named in the France XI for Monday’s Group I match, with the victory moving France onto six points from two fixtures. For Villa, it is another useful summer signal: one of Unai Emery’s senior defenders is getting meaningful tournament minutes in a side already into the knockout phase.

Villa confirmed Digne’s involvement and France’s progression in an [official international update](https://avfc.co.uk/news/2026/june/23/internationals-digne-lines-up-for-france/), noting that the result secured safe passage from the group.

## Digne’s France Role Matters For Villa

This is not just a passing international note. Digne’s minutes arrive before a demanding Villa season that includes Premier League, Champions League and UEFA Super Cup commitments, so rhythm and sharpness will matter when Emery’s squad regroups.

A knockout run also keeps Digne in competitive football deeper into the summer. That can complicate rest windows, but it also means the 32-year-old is operating under pressure rather than returning cold from a quiet break.

For Villa supporters, the key takeaway is simple: Digne remains trusted by France at a major tournament, and his match fitness is being tested at exactly the level Emery will want from his senior players.