France to Face Iraq in World Cup Group I Clash in Philadelphia

France is set to face Iraq in their second group stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled for June 23. The match will take place at 01:00 local time (06:00 UTC) in Philadelphia, USA, as part of Group I. France enters the game as vice-world champions, while Iraq looks to make an impact in the tournament.

France's starting lineup, announced by head coach Didier Deschamps, includes goalkeeper Mike Maignan and defenders Lucas Digne, Dayot Upamecano, Jules Kounde, and William Saliba. The midfield features Manu Kone and Adrien Rabiot, while the attack is led by Kylian Mbappe, supported by Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, and Bradley Barcola.

Iraq's starting XI includes goalkeeper Ahmed Basil, defenders Hussein Ali, Zaid Tahsin, Akam Hashim, and Merchas Doski. The midfield comprises Ibrahim Bayesh, Zidane Iqbal, Amir Al-Ammari, and Zaid Ismail. Ahmed Qasim and Aymen Hussein lead the attack for Iraq.

The 2026 World Cup is the 23rd edition of the tournament and is jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico for the first time. The competition features an expanded format with 48 teams, up from the previous 32, and a total of 104 matches. The group stage runs from June 11 to June 27, with the final scheduled for July 19.