France claimed a 3-0 win over Iraq in the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Monday, with Kylian Mbappé setting the tone through goals in the 14th and 54th minutes before Ousmane Dembélé added a third in the 66th to wrap up a controlled and convincing result in Philadelphia.
Didier Deschamps’ side looked sharper from the opening exchanges and took command once Mbappé opened the scoring in the 14th minute. France moved the ball quickly across the pitch, stretching Iraq’s defensive block and creating space for their front line to attack. Iraq tried to stay compact and limit central openings, but France’s movement between the lines kept forcing uncomfortable decisions.
The first half ended 1-0, yet the margin only hinted at France’s control. Les Bleus finished the match with 55.5 percent possession, 19 total shots and five efforts on target, while Iraq did not register a single shot on target. France’s structure without the ball was just as important as their attacking quality, as they prevented Iraq from building any sustained rhythm in advanced areas.
Mbappé struck again in the 54th minute, giving France the breathing room their overall play had merited. That second goal changed the texture of the fixture, allowing France to play with even greater assurance while Iraq were left chasing long spells without enough penetration. Dembélé then made it 3-0 in the 66th minute, finishing off another polished attacking move as France turned territorial control into a decisive advantage.
Iraq’s night was made more difficult by an early booking for Amir Al-Ammari in the 6th minute, and while they remained disciplined for stretches, they struggled to progress the ball into dangerous spaces. Their two corners and four total shots reflected an honest effort, but France’s back line and midfield shield gave them very little to work with in the final third.
Key performers
Mbappé was the standout figure, producing goals in the 14th and 54th minutes and constantly threatening Iraq’s shape with his timing and acceleration. Dembélé was equally influential on the right, capping his performance with the 66th-minute goal and helping France maintain width and tempo. Across the side, France also showed balance, recording three assists on their three goals and consistently linking play with precision.
NerdSports Stat: France averaged a goal every 6.3 shots and allowed Iraq zero shots on target, meaning Les Bleus combined clinical finishing with a complete defensive shutout.
The result leaves France well placed in Group I with a perfect 2-0-0 record, while Iraq drop to 0-0-2 and now face increasing pressure in the table. France will take confidence and momentum into their next fixture, knowing this was the kind of efficient World Cup performance that strengthens both goal difference and belief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kylian Mbappé (14′, 54′) and Ousmane Dembélé (66′) scored for France.
France 3 – 0 Iraq.
France move to 2-0-0 in Group I and strengthen their position near the top of the table, while Iraq fall to 0-0-2 and have work to do in their next fixture.
Kylian Mbappé was the standout performer with two goals, scored in the 14th and 54th minutes.
