France Secures Knockout Stage Berth in FIFA World Cup 2026 After Defeating Iraq 3-0

KATHMANDU. France has secured a place in the final 32 by defeating Iraq 3-0 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group 'I' match.

In the match held at Philadelphia Stadium, captain Kylian Mbappe scored two goals and Ousmane Dembele scored one for France's victory. Mbappe gave France the lead in the 14th minute with a spectacular goal from Michael Olise's pass. In the first half, which ended 1-0, he added his second goal in the 54th minute. Then, in the 66th minute, Dembele scored from another pass by Olise, ensuring France's victory.

The game was halted for about two and a half hours before the start of the second half due to bad weather. After a long interruption, the game resumed, and France maintained its rhythm, putting clear pressure on Iraq.

This match was also captain Mbappe's 100th international game. He made the achievement memorable with two goals. Similarly, Dembele scored his first goal in a major international competition.

With their second consecutive win, France has secured a place in the final 32 with one group stage match remaining. The defeated Iraq is on the verge of exiting the World Cup. Iraq will now face the pressure of needing to win their final group match against Senegal.