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Jun 22, 20262
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Iraq and France Fans Flood Philadelphia Ahead of Historic World Cup Clash
Thousands of fans from Iraq and France gathered in Philadelphia ahead of their World Cup clash on Monday, with Iraqi supporters celebrating their national team's return to the tournament after 40 years. French fans expressed confidence, while Manchester City's Rayan Cherki is expected to feature for France in the match.

Quick Facts
Who
Iraq national football team
What
Thousands of fans gathered in Philadelphia ahead of World Cup match
When
Sunday, as one day before the match
Where
Philadelphia
- Thousands of fans gathered in Philadelphia ahead of World Cup match
- Iraqi fans marched through Center City to Philadelphia Museum of Art steps
- Iraq returns to World Cup for first time in 40 years
- France fans gathered at Lion Sports Bar in Chinatown
- Rayan Cherki expected to feature for France
Thousands of soccer fans from Iraq and France converged on Philadelphia's streets and landmarks Sunday, one day before their teams' pivotal World Cup matchup at Philadelphia Stadium. The tournament marks a historic moment for Iraqi football, as the national team returns to the world's biggest stage for the first time in 40 years.
Iraqi supporters gathered near City Hall before marching through Center City to the Rocky statue and the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, carrying flags, beating drums, and chanting. Along the way, they stopped outside the hotel housing the French national team, Les Bleus. Fans who traveled from across the United States, including from Houston, Memphis, and Michigan, expressed deep emotion at being able to support their home country on such a grand stage. "I've been here since 2012, but it's not every day I get to support my home country and be like, hey, we're actually going to the World Cup!" said Yousif Hussein, a fan from Memphis.
French supporters also turned out in large numbers, gathering at Lion Sports Bar in Chinatown before heading to the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps later in the evening. Many were confident about their team's chances. "We can win, we will win. We want to go to the final," said Benjamin Vermeyl. Some predicted a lopsided scoreline, with Bertrand Vermeyl forecasting "four for France, one for Iraq." Others urged caution, saying, "We gotta be confident but not too arrogant."
Iraqi fans embraced their underdog status while remaining optimistic about the outcome, with predictions ranging from a 2-2 draw to an outright victory for Iraq. By Sunday night, Iraqi fans added their own touch to Philadelphia sports lore by placing a France jersey on the Rocky statue.
Adding to the intrigue of Monday's match is the expected involvement of Manchester City midfielder Rayan Cherki for France. The 22-year-old creative talent, listed among Manchester City's 19 players participating in the 2026 World Cup, is due to be part of France's group-stage programme. Cherki's technical ability makes him a potential game-changer, and his inclusion gives City supporters an extra reason to follow the match. A sharp performance could deepen excitement around what he can bring back to Manchester.
The match between France and Iraq kicks off Monday at 5 p.m. local time (22:00 UK time) at Philadelphia Stadium. Iraq will aim to defy expectations, while France looks to build momentum in Group I ahead of their final group-stage game against Norway in Boston on 26 June.
Why This Matters
This match marks Iraq's first World Cup appearance in 40 years, a historic moment for the nation. The gathering of thousands of fans in Philadelphia highlights the global reach of the tournament and the deep emotional connections of diaspora communities. For Manchester City fans, Rayan Cherki's expected debut adds extra interest, as his performance could signal his potential impact for the club. The match outcome will influence Group I standings, with France seeking momentum and Iraq aiming to defy expectations.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 21, 2026
WireFans from Iraq and France gather in Philadelphia ahead of the match
Jun 21, 2026
WireIraqi fans march from City Hall to Philadelphia Museum of Art steps
Jun 21, 2026
WireFrench fans gather at Lion Sports Bar in Chinatown
Jun 21, 2026
WireIraqi fans place a France jersey on the Rocky statue
Jun 22, 2026
WireKickoff of France vs. Iraq World Cup match at Philadelphia Stadium
Jun 26, 2026
WireFrance's final group game against Norway in Boston