France is set to clash with Iraq in their second match of Group I at the World Cup 2026 on June 23, 2026, at 4:00 AM (Vietnam time). Both teams have different objectives for this match; while Les Bleus aim for a swift passage to the knockout stage, Iraq must secure points to keep their hopes alive.

In their opening match, France triumphed over Senegal with a score of 3-1, placing them at the top of the group temporarily. Conversely, Iraq suffered a significant defeat, losing 1-4 to Norway, which puts them in a challenging position early in the tournament.

Under the guidance of coach Didier Deschamps, France continues to demonstrate the strength of a top championship contender. Despite not fielding their most aggressive lineup, the French team created numerous dangerous opportunities, showcasing their superior quality across all positions.

With a forward line featuring Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, and Bradley Barcola, France possesses speed, technique, and the ability to create breakthroughs. These attributes are expected to help them penetrate Iraq's defense, which is likely to be heavily fortified.

France maintains a balance between offense and defense, but they often know how to increase pressure and capitalize on opportunities against lower-ranked opponents. If France scores early, Iraq will have to push forward, potentially leaving gaps for Mbappe and his teammates to exploit through quick counterattacks.

With a superior roster and impressive depth, France is favored to win decisively, bringing them closer to the knockout rounds.

Team News

France is expected to continue with the lineup that defeated Senegal. Kylian Mbappe remains their key attacking hope, supported by Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise. In midfield, Aurelien Tchouameni and Adrien Rabiot will orchestrate the play, while the defense, consisting of William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, and Theo Hernandez, provides stability.

Iraq is likely to stick with their familiar 4-4-2 formation. Mohanad Ali and Aymen Hussein will be their main hopes for finding the back of the net.

The match between France and Iraq in Group I of the World Cup 2026 is scheduled for 4:00 AM on June 23 (Vietnam time).

Projected Lineups

France: Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Theo Hernandez; Rabiot, Tchouameni; Doue, Olise, Dembele; Mbappe.

Iraq: Hassan; H.Ali, Tahseen, Hashim, Doski; Jasim, Ismael, Al Ammari, Bayesh; Hussein, M.Ali.