Iraq faces France in World Cup qualifier with group-stage hopes at stake

Iraq’s national football team will meet France in a 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage match, with its chances of advancing hanging on the result after an opening loss to Norway. Analysts said Iraq, known as the Lions of the Tigris, showed disciplined play and an organized defense in the first half against Norway, with quick attacking transitions and midfield balance cited among the team’s strengths. Individual errors, lapses in concentration and soft goals conceded were identified as clear weaknesses, while missed chances in attack and a drop in physical tempo after halftime were also noted. Observers said Iraq can keep its hopes alive if it tightens its defense and reproduces its first-half performance against Norway. In the same group, Norway is set to face Senegal, and the outcome of that match will also directly shape Iraq’s chances of progressing to the next round.