Group stage · Group I

France vs Iraq

A two-time champion meets a side back on the world stage after decades away.

Kickoff 17:00 (New York time)

Apple Calendar adds a reminder 60 minutes before kickoff.

What makes France vs Iraq interesting?

France face Iraq at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

France are ranked 3rd in the world and have won the World Cup twice.

Iraq are ranked 58th and are playing their first World Cup since 1986.

This is a big gap on paper, with France among the tournament favorites.

Iraq arrive with little to lose and a chance to test themselves against the best.

This is a Group I match, so points still matter for both.

What to watch out for?

France's class against an Iraq side making a rare World Cup appearance.

Whether Iraq can stay organized and frustrate a top team.

How quickly France build a lead and control the game.

What this result means for the standings in Group I.

How France and Iraq compare

FranceIraq
#3FIFA ranking#58
17thWorld Cups2nd
Winners (1998, 2018)Best finishGroup stage
UEFAConfederationAFC
Date
Monday, June 22
Kickoff Time
17:00 (New York time)

Common questions

When and where is France vs Iraq played?

The match is played on June 22, 2026 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. It is a Group I game at the 2026 World Cup.

What time does the match kick off?

Kickoff is at 17:00 local time. This page also shows the time in your own timezone.

Who are France and Iraq?

France are ranked 3rd and have won the World Cup twice. Iraq are ranked 58th and are back at the World Cup for the first time since 1986.

Who is favored to win?

France are clear favorites as one of the strongest teams in the world. Iraq face a tough task against a two-time champion.

What is at stake in Group I?

France want to start strong and take control of the group. Iraq look to grab any points they can to stay in the race.

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