France thrashes Iraq 3-0 in storm-interrupted match to advance to World Cup round of 16

France secured their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dominant 3-0 victory over Iraq at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Monday. The match was temporarily suspended due to a severe electrical storm, but once play resumed, Les Bleus took control with goals from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé. Mbappé netted a brace, and Dembélé also scored twice, while Iraq struggled to mount a response despite late pressure.

The game was interrupted by a thunderstorm that caused a delay, but France showed no signs of disruption after the restart. Mbappé opened the scoring with a clinical finish, and Dembélé doubled the lead with a well-placed shot. The second half saw more French dominance, with Olise providing assists for both goals. Iraq's best chance came from Al-Hamadi, whose close-range volley went just wide. France managed the game calmly, and despite a late push from Iraq, the score remained 3-0.

With this win, France tops Group I with six points and will face Norway in the final group stage match to decide the group winner. Norway had earlier drawn with Senegal, setting up a crucial decider between the two European sides. France's performance has sent a strong message to opponents, as they continue their quest for a third World Cup title.

Didier Deschamps made substitutions late in the game, bringing on Thuram, Akliouche, and Gusto to rest key players. Mbappé, who was substituted off in the 88th minute, received a warm ovation from the crowd. The French team now looks ahead to the knockout round with confidence, while Iraq must regroup and hope for favorable results in their remaining group matches.

The match was played in front of a lively crowd, with the storm delay adding drama to an already intense group stage encounter. France's depth and quality were on full display, and they will be a formidable opponent in the knockout phase.