France v Iraq: 2026 World Cup Prediction

One of the best matches at the 2026 World Cup was the one between France and Senegal. Senegal put in a more than respectable performance, but in the end it was Kylian Mbappé who made the difference with two superb goals. Iraq held their own against Norway for a long time, but still went down 1–4. Will the Iraqis seize their last chance against what is perhaps the best team so far? Here’s our France v Iraq prediction.

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France v Iraq preview

We’ll give Iraq credit for this: surviving in a group featuring France, Norway and Senegal. That’s certainly a tough return after an absence of several decades. Still, we saw some promising signs from Graham Arnold’s side against Norway. Can they do the same against France? Read on for a brief look at both teams.

Current Form & Team News

France

An attacking line-up featuring Desiré Doué, Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise – it’s the stuff of dreams. And to top it off, bring on Bradley Barcola to score France’s second goal. It goes without saying that Didier Deschamps has every reason to be delighted with such a squad. It’s no surprise that he himself has said that France are the clear favourites for the World Cup title. Call it arrogance, call it realism, there’s no getting round the fact that Les Bleus are the team to beat at the World Cup.

Iraq

At first glance, Iraq appears to be a minor footballing nation. And indeed, they are certainly among the underdogs at the 2026 World Cup. Yet it is not as though they are completely without talent. For instance, Zidane Iqbal’s side put in a fine performance to draw 1–1 with Spain in the run-up to the 2026 World Cup. Remarkably, they had only one shot fewer than Norway, even though the quality of the chances was better for the Scandinavians.

Many eyes will be on Aymen Hussein, the player who scored for both Iraq and Norway. Can the Middle Eastern nation’s number 10 cause problems for the French defence? Or will he be isolated for the entire match?

Head-to-Head

France and Iraq have never played each other before. Therefore, there is nothing to say about the history between the two nations.

Expected Line-ups

France (4-3-3):

Maignan, Hernandez, Saliba, Upamecano, Gusto, Rabiot, Tchouameni, Doué, Mbappé, Dembélé, Olise

Iraq (4-2-2):

Basil, Doski, Hashim, Tahseen, Ali, Al-Ammari, Iqbal, Farji, Jasim, Al-Hamadi, Hussein

France v Iraq Betting Tips

Betting tip 1: Michael Olise to have more than 1.5 shots on target

Of course, France have two absolute world-class stars in Mbappé and Dembélé. Michael Olise certainly deserves to be added to this list following this season. The Bayern Munich right winger has had a sensational season with countless goals and assists. Against Senegal, too, the elegant former Crystal Palace player posed a real threat in front of goal. We reckon that, just as against Senegal, he’ll have at least two shots on target. This will earn you odds of 2.18 at Oranje Palace.

Betting tip 2: Over 3.5 goals

There will undoubtedly be a clear difference in quality during France v Iraq. The opening matches in this group were particularly high-scoring. Nine goals in two matches is a real treat for the eyes. Furthermore, at least four goals were scored in six of France’s last eight matches. We expect a repeat of that pattern. Over 3.5 goals gives you odds of 1.96 at Oranje Palace.

France v Iraq Prediction

** Final score: France 3–1 Iraq **
We can’t wait to see the French in action again. In recent years, they’ve faced a lot of criticism for their cautious style of play, something that hasn’t been the case so far this tournament. That’s why we think they’ll score three goals again. However, we do think they’ll lose their edge once.