World Cup 2026: what are France’s possible routes to qualification? 🔎 | OneFootball

After a hard-fought draw against Iceland (2-2) in Reykjavik, the French team remains at the top of Group D in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, but the fate of the four teams in the group remains uncertain.

So, how can Les Bleus secure their ticket to Qatar for 2026?

Let's break it down.

Group D standings

1) France - 10 pts

2) Ukraine - 7 pts

3) Iceland - 4 pts

4) Azerbaijan - 1 pt

With a three-point lead over Ukraine, France can still aim for direct qualification... but nothing is guaranteed.

Scenario 1: Victory against Ukraine 💪

The simplest scenario for Les Bleus is obviously to beat Ukraine in the next decisive home clash. A victory would secure the first place in the group and thus direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Scenario 2: The draw 🫢

Depending on the other results in the group, Les Bleus could already secure their qualification with a draw. Otherwise, it would remain crucial not to relax in the last match against Azerbaijan to avoid jeopardizing everything.

Scenario 3: The defeat 🥶

In case of a defeat, France would significantly increase its chances of finishing in second place and thus having to go through the playoffs to hope for qualification. This scenario is not dramatic, but it would increase the pressure on Didier Deschamps and his men.

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

📸 HALLDOR KOLBEINS - AFP or licensors