World Cup 2026, Group I: Mbappé, Haaland and a return 🇫🇷🇳🇴🇸🇳🇮🇶 | OneFootball

The 2026 World Cup is already here, and Group I promises to be a real powder keg! With historic giants, stars hungry for glory, and emerging surprises, this group combines generational talent and cultural clashes that will redefine the tournament in North America.

Which players should you keep an eye on?

🇫🇷 Kylian Mbappé: The speedster of 'Les Bleus' arrives at the absolute peak of his footballing maturity, ready to tear defenses apart with his power and lethal eye for goal as he looks to break every historic World Cup record.

🇳🇴 Erling Haaland: The goal-scoring beast finally makes his World Cup debut; a ruthless finisher whose physical strength and runs into space will punish any back line that switches off for even a second.

🇸🇳 Sadio Mané: The eternal leader and icon of the 'Lions of Teranga' brings the experience, magic, and attacking flair needed to guide a talented African generation dreaming big.

🇮🇶 Aymen Hussein: The lanky striker is the great hope of the Asian side; a pure target man known for his aerial play and grit, who will look to make the most of every counterattack to write his country's epic story.

Which absences stand out the most?

The physical demands take their toll, and some big names will be watching the tournament from home. France loses the balance of Eduardo Camavinga after a poor end to the season, while Norway will miss the dribbling runs of young Oscar Bobb. In Senegal, the absence of veteran Cheikhou Kouyaté will be felt in the dressing room, and Iraq will miss midfielder Zidane Iqbal's vision in build-up play.

Which match can’t I miss?

Without a doubt, Norway vs France. Beyond being a key clash for top spot, this match will give us the ultimate showdown of modern football: Kylian Mbappé face to face with Erling Haaland. Two generational titans going head-to-head on the biggest pressure stage. Pure dynamite for your screens!

Who are the favorites to go through?

France are the clear favorites to top the group thanks to their star-studded squad. The second automatic spot will likely be a tight battle between Norway and Senegal, with a slight edge for the Nordics because of their firepower, although the Africans are experts at striking hard. Iraq have it very tough and will need a miracle to avoid elimination.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 FRANCK FIFE - AFP or licensors