France vs Iraq Preview, Prediction and Team News – FIFA World Cup 2026

France Target Knockout Qualification Against Iraq

France will aim to secure their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stages when they face Iraq in a crucial Group I encounter on Monday.

The 2018 FIFA World Cup winners made a strong start to their campaign with an entertaining victory over Senegal. Once again, captain Kylian Mbappé stole the headlines as he became France's all-time leading men's goalscorer while also breaking the World Cup scoring record for a French player previously held by Just Fontaine.

With three points already on the board, Didier Deschamps' side know that another victory could guarantee qualification for the Round of 32 and strengthen their chances of finishing top of the group.

Mbappe Leading a Fearsome French Attack

France remain one of the most dangerous attacking teams in international football. Les Bleus have now scored in 14 consecutive matches and have netted at least twice in 13 of those games.

While defensive issues continue to be a concern after failing to keep a clean sheet in six straight matches, their attacking firepower has more than compensated.

Young winger Bradley Barcola impressed with a goal against Senegal, while stars such as Ousmane Dembélé, Randal Kolo Muani and Eduardo Camavinga provide quality throughout the squad.

Currently sitting second in Group I behind Norway on goal difference, France will be targeting a convincing win to strengthen their position.

Iraq Looking to Keep Qualification Hopes Alive

Iraq enter the match after a difficult 4-1 defeat to Norway in their opening World Cup fixture.

Head coach Graham Arnold took positives from his team's display despite the heavy scoreline, particularly their competitiveness against one of Europe's strongest sides.

However, defensive errors proved costly, and Iraq now face a must-win situation if they are to improve their chances of progressing to the knockout rounds.

The Lions of Mesopotamia are still searching for their first-ever point at a FIFA World Cup finals tournament, having lost all three matches during their only previous appearance in 1986.

Encouragingly, Iraq have found the net in nine of their last 11 matches and will hope their attacking threat can trouble France.

Team News

France

France are expected to have a near full-strength squad available.

Defenders William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Theo Hernández and Malo Gusto have all trained normally and should be available for selection.

Didier Deschamps may rotate his squad, with Lucas Digne expected to replace Theo Hernandez at left-back, while Manu Koné could come into midfield.

Barcola is also pushing for a starting role after becoming the youngest French player to score at a World Cup since Thierry Henry.

Iraq

Iraq have received a boost with winger Ali Jasim returning to full fitness after recovering from a minor injury.

Goalkeeper Jalal Hassan is available, although Ahmed Basil could be considered following the defeat to Norway.

Captain Aymen Hussein is expected to lead the line once again after his eventful performance in the opening game.

Head-to-Head Record

This will be the first-ever meeting between France and Iraq in international football.

France enter the contest as overwhelming favourites thanks to their superior squad depth, experience and tournament pedigree.

Key Players to Watch

Kylian Mbappe (France)

The French captain continues to break records and remains one of the most dangerous attackers in world football. His pace, finishing and ability to decide matches make him the biggest threat on the pitch.

Aymen Hussein (Iraq)

Iraq's talismanic striker will be crucial if his side are to cause an upset. His physical presence and aerial strength could create problems for the French defence.

Match Prediction

France possess significantly more quality across every area of the pitch and should control the match from the opening whistle.

Iraq are capable of creating opportunities on the counterattack and may find the net, but Les Bleus have too much attacking firepower to be denied.

Prediction: France 4-1 Iraq