Paris – 10.06.2026: The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner, and the French national team begins their tournament with a challenging group stage in Group I. Didier Deschamps’ team will face Senegal, Norway, and Iraq. The opener is scheduled for June 16, 2026, at 9:00 PM CEST at MetLife Stadium in New York against Senegal.
Senegal, the reigning African champions, has made significant progress under coach Pape Thiaw, who has been in charge since December 2024. Thiaw, a former international player himself and long-time assistant to Aliou Cissé, led his team confidently through qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. With players like Ismaïla Sarr from Crystal Palace, Senegal boasts a fast and efficient offense. The team aims to establish itself as one of Africa’s powers at the World Cup and to make every match highly competitive.
Norway returns to the football world stage after a 28-year absence. The team primarily relies on the exceptional striker Erling Haaland, who has scored an impressive 55 goals in 48 international appearances. He is supported by creative players like Martin Ødegaard and robust forwards such as Alexander Sørloth. The match between France and Norway on June 26, 2026, at Gillette Stadium in Boston is expected to be a particularly exciting duel, where the Norwegians will seek to prove their hunger for success.
Iraq is appearing at a World Cup for the first time in 40 years. Although considered underdogs, with players like Aymen Hussein of Al-Karma, who has scored 35 goals in 95 international matches, they could cause some surprises. The World Cup match against France is set for June 22, 2026, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. This presents Iraq with the opportunity to exceed expectations significantly.
France, the current world number one with 16 World Cup appearances, enters the group as favorites. However, the team and coach Didier Deschamps are fully aware of the quality of their opponents. Particularly Senegal and Norway have the potential to bring excitement and challenges throughout the tournament. The group stage matches will be crucial to securing a spot in the round of 16.
This group composition promises intense and thrilling matches. The performances of the opponents will test the French squad’s abilities to their limits. Football fans can look forward to an exciting tournament where every point will count.