The Independent
·22 juin 2026
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Yahoo sportsThe Independent
·22 juin 2026
France underlined why they are among the favourites to win the World Cup with a statement 3-1 win over Senegal in their Group I opener, and Les Bleus continue their bid for another trophy against minnows Iraq.
Kylian Mbappe shone as he bagged a brace to become France’s highest scorer of all time, overtaking Olivier Giroud, and overhauled Just Fontaine’s record for the most World Cup goals by a Frenchman.
Bradley Barcola also scored as France dominated in a stellar second half, while Iraq were beaten 4-1 by Norway, meaning Didier Deschamps’ side need one more win to qualify early for the knockout stages.
They currently sit second courtesy of Norway’s more impressive haul of goals, while Iraq look destined for an early exit.
France face Iraq in Group I on Monday 22 June at the Philadelphia Stadium, with kick-off at 10pm BST.
Viewers in the UK can watch the match live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
William Saliba said he was playing through “gritted teeth” after a long and gruelling season, but France should be able to call on the Arsenal star as well as Theo Hernandez, Malo Gusto and Dayot Upamecano, who have been wrapped in cotton wool to ensure they are fully fit.
Ali Jasim was withdrawn against Norway due to a knock but has shaken it off in training this week.
France XI: Maignan, Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Digne, Rabiot, Kone, Dembele, Olise, Barcola, Mbappe
Iraq XI: Basil, Ali, Tahseen, Hashem, Doski, Bayesh, Al-Ammari, Iqbal, Ali Jasim, Hussein, Al-Hamadi







































