Stade de France, Paris, kick-off 8pm British time. Live on BT Sport.

WHAT’S AT STAKE?

This is the final Rugby World Cup warm-up game before the real thing, so, although only a friendly, is the last chance for players to prove they should be in the team.

GROUNDS FOR OPTIMISM

Scotland have improved in their three matches to date, going from a narrow loss in Ireland to a narrow win in Turin and then a big win against Italy back at Murrayfield. Vern Cotter has named something very close to his strongest line-up for this game, which should mean that the pack win enough ball to give the backs a chance to run at the French defence.

CAUSE FOR CONCERN

France are in good form, and beat England 25-20 in their last outing. Six penalties accounted for most of those 25 points, so discipline will be a big issue for the Scots. At their best, the French are capable of destroying any team, and they are in the mood to win convincingly today.

KEY CONTEST

French centres Wesley Fofana and Mathieu Bastareaud can cause immense damage with their direct running. Matt Scott and Mark Bennett will have to shut them down when in defence, and should also be able to pose some problems of their own in attack.

TACTICAL BATTLE

When to play a containing game, when to open up is the big question for Scotland. The front five have a big part to play in stifling French hopes, while the back row looks equally well equipped for defensive and attacking duties.

PREDICTION

France 31 Scotland 21