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

France target knockout qualification against Iraq

France will look to book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout rounds when they take on Iraq in a Group I clash on Monday.

The 2018 world champions began their campaign with an entertaining victory over Senegal, inspired once again by captain Kylian Mbappe. The Real Madrid superstar continued his record-breaking career by becoming France's all-time leading men's goalscorer while also surpassing Just Fontaine's record for the most FIFA World Cup goals scored by a French player.

Mbappe's latest heroics helped Didier Deschamps's side secure all three points in their opening match, leaving Les Bleus on the verge of early qualification for the Round of 32. Another victory would place France in a commanding position heading into the final group fixture.

Mbappe leading a powerful French attack

France continue to be one of the most dangerous attacking teams in world football. Deschamps's men have now scored in 14 consecutive matches and have netted at least twice in 13 of those games.

Although defensive concerns remain after failing to keep a clean sheet in six straight matches, France's attacking quality has consistently compensated for any weaknesses at the back.

Bradley Barcola impressed with a goal against Senegal, while the likes of Ousmane Dembele, Randal Kolo Muani and Eduardo Camavinga provide depth and creativity throughout the squad.

France currently sit second in Group I behind Norway on goal difference, making a convincing victory against Iraq important in the race for top spot.

Iraq hoping to keep qualification dreams alive

Iraq face a difficult challenge after suffering a 4-1 defeat to Norway in their opening World Cup match.

Head coach Graham Arnold was encouraged by parts of his team's performance despite the result, particularly their ability to compete for long periods against one of Europe's strongest sides. However, costly defensive mistakes proved decisive as Norway pulled away late in the contest.

The Lions of Mesopotamia remain in contention for qualification, but another defeat could leave them relying on other results and the third-place rankings to advance.

Iraq are still searching for their first-ever point at a FIFA World Cup finals tournament. Their only previous appearance came in 1986, where they lost all three group-stage matches.

While results have been inconsistent, Iraq have shown attacking promise, scoring in nine of their last 11 matches across all competitions.

Team News

France

France are expected to have a near full-strength squad available. Defenders William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano, Theo Hernandez and Malo Gusto have all trained normally and should be fit for selection.

Deschamps could make several changes to freshen up the team. Lucas Digne is expected to replace Theo Hernandez at left-back, while Manu Kone may come into midfield in place of Aurelien Tchouameni.

Bradley Barcola, who scored on his World Cup debut, is pushing for a starting role on the left wing after becoming the youngest French player to score in a World Cup match since Thierry Henry.

Iraq

Iraq have received positive injury news ahead of the match. Winger Ali Jasim has recovered from a minor knock and is available for selection after training throughout the week.

Goalkeeper Jalal Hassan is also fit, although reports suggest Ahmed Basil could be considered following the opening defeat to Norway.

Captain Aymen Hussein will continue to lead the attack after making headlines in the previous match by scoring at both ends, becoming one of only a handful of players in World Cup history to achieve that unusual feat.

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, boasting significantly greater experience at the highest level and one of the strongest squads in the tournament.

Key Players to Watch

Kylian Mbappe (France)
The France captain continues to rewrite the record books and remains one of the most feared attackers in world football. His pace, movement and finishing ability make him a constant threat.

Aymen Hussein (Iraq)
Iraq's leading striker will carry the hopes of his nation. His aerial ability and physical presence could trouble the French defence if Iraq create opportunities.

Prediction

France possess too much quality, depth and attacking firepower for Iraq. While the Asian side may enjoy spells of possession and could create chances on the counterattack, Les Bleus should ultimately dominate proceedings.

Expect Mbappe and company to continue their strong World Cup form and move a step closer to the knockout rounds.

Prediction: France 4-1 Iraq