France vs Iraq prediction: Will Kylian Mbappe add to his World Cup goal tally?

You've got to feel for Iraq in Group I.

Graham Arnold's side are playing in their first World Cup for 40 years, but had to play second fiddle to Norway and Erling Haaland in their opening, with the Manchester City striker helping himself to a brace in a 4-1 victory for the Scandinavians.

And after dealing with one world-class forward, they are now up against Kylian Mbappe, fresh from his two-goal opening performance in France's 3-1 win over Senegal.

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France vs Iraq odds from BOYLE SPORTS

• France WIN - 1/14
• Draw - 10/1
• Iraq WIN - 25/1

France vs Iraq prediction

The Philadelphia Stadium - home of the Eagles - plays host to this one (Image credit: Getty)

The match is set to kick off at 4pm local time (10am UK time) at the Philadelphia Stadium in Pennsylvania, United States.

France begin the second Group I matchday sitting second in the group, behind Norway on goal difference, after the two European nations won their opening fixtures. Iraq and Senegal are both looking for their first points.

Mohanad Ali will be key for Iraq's hopes of claiming an upset (Image credit: Getty Images)

France, therefore, know that they are well placed to make the knockouts, but will want to make sure they head into their final group stage match against Norway on maximum points to ensure they are in the box seat to top the group.

That said, given the depth in Didier Deschamps' squad, it would be no surprise if he were to shuffle his pack somewhat and give the likes of Lucas Digne, Bradley Barcola and Manu Kone a start.

The French media have also suggested that Michael Olise will be moved into a number ten role, allowing Ousmane Dembele to his optimal right-hand side role, which could all be music to Mbappe's ears.

The Real Madrid man starts Group I's Matchday 2 sitting two goals behind Lionel Messi and Miroslav Klose in the all-time World Cup goalscoring chart and will fancy his chances of closing the gap on the German at least, with Argentina playing before France on Monday.

France have scored in each of their last 14 international matches and it's hard to see that streak ending in Philadelphia today.

Didier Deschamps may be tempted to shuffle his pack (Image credit: Getty Images)

Iraq's defensive frailties were evident in their opening defeat to Norway and from a talent point of view, it's near-impossible to make a case for Graham Arnold's side to spring an upset.

However, in a tournament that's thrown up some surprise results so far, the pressure will all be on the French, with another intangible being the forecasted storms that are predicted to batter Philadelphia tonight, which could add a pinch of unpredictability to proceedings.

But logic and conventional wisdom point to a comfortable win for the 2022 runners-up.

• Score prediction: France 4-1 Iraq

How to watch France vs Iraq

You can watch France vs Iraq in Group I of World Cup 2026 for free.

The match will be broadcast live on BBC One in the UK, FOX in the United States and SBS in Australia.

What's your France vs Iraq prediction? Let us know below...