FIFA World Cup 2026 Prediction: France vs Iraq (23-06-2026)

France could take a major step towards the knockout stage when they face Iraq in the second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

After beating Senegal in their opener, Didier Deschamps’ side now meet an Iraqi team that suffered a heavy defeat against Norway and already find themselves under pressure heading into this fixture.

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France opened their FIFA World Cup campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal.

Kylian Mbappe scored twice, including a spectacular long-range effort, while the French attack consistently caused problems with its pace, movement and passing combinations.

Iraq also found the net in their opening match, but the final score tells a different story.

Norway ran out 4-1 winners and created far more dangerous opportunities throughout the game.

Iraq struggled defensively and were punished whenever Norway increased the tempo.

France enter this match ranked 3rd in the FIFA standings, while Iraq sit 57th.

The gap was visible in the opening round. France defeated one of Africa’s strongest sides, whereas Iraq were comfortably beaten by Norway despite managing to score once.

The French attack looks capable of causing even more problems here.

Mbappe was outstanding against Senegal, and France created chances throughout the ninety minutes rather than relying on isolated moments.

Iraq now face a team with even more quality in the final third than Norway.

Iraq deserve credit for continuing to attack even after falling behind against Norway, but that approach could leave additional space for France’s forwards.

Iraq now face a side that created far more attacking danger than Norway in the opening round.

Based on those performances, France covering a -2.5 handicap is a realistic outcome.