France thrashed Iraq and secured early qualification for the 2026 World Cup play-offs
The French national team thrashed Iraq in their second Group I match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, USA, ended in a 3–0 victory for France.
The French opened the scoring in the 14th minute. Kylian Mbappé received a pass from Michael Olise and, with a shot from the edge of the penalty area, sent the ball into the far corner.
After the first half had ended, the match was suspended due to a thunderstorm. The break lasted a long time in accordance with the safety regulations in force in the US.
Once play resumed, France quickly doubled their lead. In the 54th minute, Kylian Mbappé completed his brace, scoring from a pass by Ousmane Dembélé.
These goals were Mbappé’s 15th and 16th at World Cups. The Frenchman has thus drawn level with former Germany striker Miroslav Klose for the most goals at World Cups. Only Lionel Messi, who has scored 18 goals, is ahead of him.
In the 66th minute, Didier Deschamps’ side sealed a resounding victory. Ousmane Dembélé received the ball from Michael Olise on the right-hand side of the penalty area and sent it into the far corner with a precise shot.
In the opening round of Group I, France beat Senegal 3–1, whilst Norway defeated Iraq 4–1.
In the other Group I match of the second round, Norway beat Senegal 3–2.
After two rounds, France and Norway have each accumulated six points and have secured their places in the knockout stages ahead of schedule. Senegal and Iraq remain without any points.
In the third round, France will face Norway, whilst Iraq will take on Senegal. Both matches will take place on 26 June at 22:00 Kyiv time.
The 2026 World Cup is taking place from 11 June to 19 July across three countries: the USA, Mexico and Canada.
This is the first World Cup to feature 48 national teams. All teams are divided into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group, as well as the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to the round of 16.
