Lagos, June 23, 2026 – France delivered a commanding performance to secure a 3-0 win over Iraq in their Group I fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, played on Monday night at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
The French team dictated proceedings for most of the encounter, converting their dominance into goals through a brace from Kylian Mbappé and a strike from Ousmane Dembélé.
Play was briefly disrupted by adverse weather conditions, leading to a delay before the restart, but France quickly regained control once action resumed and maintained their advantage to the final whistle.
France broke the deadlock in the 14th minute when Michael Olise threaded a precise pass to Mbappé at the edge of the box. The French skipper unleashed a powerful left-footed effort that left the Iraqi goalkeeper with no chance.
Iraq found it difficult to contain France’s pace and movement, with the European side repeatedly creating dangerous openings. Early in the match, Amir Al Ammari received a yellow card in the 6th minute after fouling Mbappé during a threatening run forward, reflecting Iraq’s struggle to cope defensively.
Following the weather interruption, France resumed with intensity and doubled their lead in the 54th minute. Dembélé took advantage of a defensive lapse and unselfishly set up Mbappé, who calmly finished into an unguarded net for his second goal.
The third goal arrived in the 66th minute, with Dembélé getting on the scoresheet. Olise again played a key role, driving forward from midfield before delivering a well-timed pass to the winger, who controlled the ball expertly and placed a composed finish into the far corner.
Despite being behind, Iraq showed resilience and attempted to threaten on the break, but France’s defence remained compact and disciplined, shutting down any route back into the match.
The result boosts France’s standing in Group I and further underlines the strength of their attacking unit. Mbappé’s two goals reinforced his status as one of the tournament’s standout forwards, while Olise and Dembélé impressed with their creativity and decisive contributions.
France ended the match in full control, displaying both quality and depth as they continue their World Cup campaign with confidence.