Philadelphia – 22.06.2026: The French national football team sealed its early advancement to the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday evening with a convincing 3-0 win against Iraq at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The match kicked off at 11:00 PM local time (5:00 PM in Paris) and was broadcast live in France on M6 and beIN Sports.
The French started energetically after winning their opening match against Senegal 3-1. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring in the first half by confidently converting a precise pass from Antoine Griezmann. After the break, Olivier Giroud extended the lead to 2-0 with a header following a cross from Benjamin Pavard. The final goal was scored in the 75th minute by substitute Randal Kolo Muani, who netted after a quick counterattack against the Iraqi goal.
Coach Didier Deschamps can already celebrate qualification for the knockout stage before the last group match against Norway on June 26 at Gillette Stadium in Boston. With six points, France leads Group I, followed by Norway with three points. Senegal and Iraq have yet to earn any points and are now competing for a better ranking.
Iraq, having lost their opening match against Norway, is now under pressure with two defeats. The Iraqi squad, coached by Srecko Katanec, was unable to score despite a determined effort and must earn points in their final game against Senegal to keep hopes alive for the round of 16.
The final group match between France and Norway on June 26 at 9:00 PM local time (3:00 AM in Paris) will decide the group winner. Another victory would not only secure France the top spot in the group but also establish a strong position going into the knockout phase.
The remaining fixtures in Group I are scheduled as follows:
– Norway vs. Senegal: June 23, 2026, 2:00 AM local time (8:00 AM in Paris), Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, live on beIN Sports.
– Senegal vs. Iraq: June 26, 2026, 9:00 PM local time (3:00 AM in Paris), Gillette Stadium, Boston, live on beIN Sports.
– Norway vs. France: June 26, 2026, 9:00 PM local time (3:00 AM in Paris), Gillette Stadium, Boston, live on M6 and beIN Sports.
France has demonstrated strong performances so far and is regarded as one of the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup in the USA. Fans can look forward to exciting matches and hopefully more successes for their team.