France to face Iraq in World Cup Group Stage Match

France to Face Iraq in Boston as Les Bleus Seek Knockout Phase Spot

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 13 different kickoff times. France is set to face Iraq at Philadelphia Stadium in Pennsylvania on Monday at 5pm (21:00 GMT). The match is part of Group I, which is considered one of the most challenging groups at the tournament.

France has won its last two matches and is looking to secure a spot in the knockout phase against Iraq. Kylian Mbappe scored two goals in France’s previous match against Senegal, helping his team recover from a shaky first half to win 3-1.

Iraq, making its World Cup debut since 1986, will look to bounce back from a 4-1 defeat in its opening group game against Norway. The team is facing a tough task, as it needs to secure a draw or win against France to avoid elimination.

The match is expected to be a significant test for Iraq, with France considered the overwhelming favorite. According to Opta’s supercomputer, France has an 88.5 percent chance of victory, while Iraq has just a three percent chance of winning. The predicted outcome includes only an 8.5 percent chance of a draw.

The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will proceed to the round of 32, which is being introduced at the World Cup for the first time. France currently sits second in Group I, while Iraq is fourth. The match against Iraq will be an important test for Les Bleus as they seek to secure a spot in the knockout phase.

Source: Al Jazeera