Paris – 22.06.2026: Shortly before the French national football team’s second group match at the 2026 World Cup against Iraq, captain Kylian Mbappé took a clear stance. At a press conference on June 21 in Philadelphia, the 27-year-old striker from Real Madrid stressed his full focus on the upcoming match. “I will do my best to worthily represent my country,” Mbappé said emphatically.
In the opening Group I match, Mbappé contributed decisively with two goals in the 3-1 victory against Senegal. In doing so, he surpassed his former teammate Olivier Giroud as the top scorer of the French national team. Mbappé and his teammates now want to maintain this momentum.
Coach Didier Deschamps also highlighted the importance of the game. “Every match in such a tournament counts. We have to build on the first and consistently improve our performance,” explained the experienced coach. After winning the World Cup titles in 1998 and 2018, France now aims for a third triumph.
The opponent Iraq presents itself as unpredictable and was only narrowly defeated in the World Cup qualification. Iraqi coach Graham Arnold expressed respect for the French team and its captain before the match. “We pay close attention to our own strategy and want to show our best football,” Arnold said.
The duel takes place on June 22, 2026, at the stadium in Philadelphia and will kick off at 5:00 PM local time (11:00 PM CEST). For France, it is about securing the top spot in the group and setting the course for the round of 16 with another win.
Mbappé is aware of the high expectations that are placed on him nationally and internationally. With his current form, he is among the favorites for the Golden Ball, awarded to the best player of the tournament. The French team has a mix of experienced key players and young talents aiming together for the title.
Besides sporting goals, representing the country also plays a central role. Mbappé repeatedly emphasized the responsibility that comes with being captain. “I want to be a role model and show the fans that we play with heart and passion,” he said.
The match against Iraq will be broadcast internationally on many channels and is considered a key game for the further progress of the tournament. The pressure on the French team is high, as a victory would increase hopes for the title. The 2026 World Cup thus promises high tension and top-level football on this second matchday as well.
Sources
- AS.com
- TF1 Info
- So Foot
- FIFA.com