France look to close in on knockout qualification against Iraq in Group I at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Victory would see France go top of Group I, whilst Iraq can move up to third realistically with a win although they can go second if win by three or more goals.
Team News
France have no fresh injury concerns to report following their 3-1 victory against Senegal.
Iraq could be without Ali Jasim after he suffered a knock during their 4-1 loss to Norway.
When is Kick-Off?
France face Iraq at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, USA, on Monday 21 June at 5pm EDT (10pm BST), live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK.
Stat Attack
- This is France’s first World Cup meeting against Iraq.
- Iraq are meeting France for the first time in their history in all competitions.
- Jules Kounde was the only France player to be caught offside during their victory over Senegal.
- Iraq scored with their only shot on target against Norway through Ayman Hussein.
Prediction
After a sluggish first half against Senegal, France turned on their clinical quality in a ruthless second-half performance even if they rode their luck at times but I do expect them to be sharper in this game now the early shackles are off.
Iraq meanwhile produced a spirited display against Norway but were just outclassed in a pretty wasteful display in moments when they had opportunities to put shots on goal, which is a worry because they’re not likely to have many opportunities against the 2018 champions.
Iraq’s priority therefore has to be on the defensive side of their game and be clinical when attacking chances fall their way, otherwise this could be a long match for them.
Prediction: France 4-0 Iraq
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