Iraq take on France in a FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I fixture at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Monday 22 June 2026. The 2022 runners-up face the Asian qualifier in what looks on paper like one of the standout mismatches of the group stage, though Iraq will hope to spring a surprise.
What is the FIFA World Cup 2026?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the 23rd edition of the tournament and the first co-hosted by three nations: the United States, Canada and Mexico. Running from 11 June to 19 July 2026, the competition features 48 teams, 104 matches, and a new format with 12 groups of four and a Round of 32.
France, runners-up in 2022 and champions in 2018, arrive among the favourites. Iraq qualified through the AFC route and are making only their second-ever World Cup appearance, their first since 1986, and will be determined to make their mark on the global stage.
When is Iraq vs France?
Iraq vs France kicks off at 12pm ET (5pm BST) on Monday 22 June 2026 as part of matchday two in Group I. The match is scheduled to last approximately two hours including the interval.
Where is Iraq vs France being played?
The game takes place at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Home to the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles, the stadium holds just under 70,000 spectators and is one of 11 US venues selected to host 2026 World Cup matches. It will also stage further group and knockout-stage fixtures during the tournament.
Key Contenders
France, under head coach Didier Deschamps, remain one of the most talent-rich squads in world football. Kylian Mbappe, now captain of Les Bleus, leads a forward line that also includes Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola and Randal Kolo Muani. Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga anchor the midfield. France came within a penalty shoot-out of successive world titles in 2022 and are heavily fancied to challenge deep into the tournament again.
Iraq qualified through a strong AFC campaign and are led by experienced forward Aymen Hussein and goalkeeper Jalal Hassan. The Lions of Mesopotamia will rely on disciplined defensive structure and counter-attacking pace. Simply reaching the 2026 World Cup is a major achievement for Iraqi football, and the squad will look to build on the expanded-format opportunity.
How to Watch
UK viewers can watch the match live on BBC or ITV, with streaming on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. In the United States, FOX carries English-language coverage with Telemundo broadcasting in Spanish. International viewers can access highlights through FIFA+, with beIN Sports covering the Middle East and North Africa region, and TF1 holding French-language rights in France.
History and Head-to-Head
France and Iraq have no significant competitive history, having never previously met at a major tournament. This fixture marks their first senior encounter and represents a historic moment for Iraqi football given the calibre of opposition. France’s World Cup record includes titles in 1998 and 2018, plus runner-up finishes in 2006 and 2022.
Tickets and Attendance
All tickets for the 2026 World Cup are distributed via FIFA’s official ticketing portal at FIFA.com. Demand for France’s group-stage matches has been high, and hospitality packages through FIFA’s appointed hospitality partner remain the most reliable premium option. Fans are urged to avoid unauthorised resale platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Iraq vs France start?
The match kicks off at 12pm ET (5pm BST) on Monday 22 June 2026.
Where is Iraq vs France being held?
At Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, United States.
How can I watch Iraq vs France?
Live on BBC or ITV in the UK, FOX and Telemundo in the US, and FIFA+ for highlights globally.
When did France last win the World Cup?
France won the FIFA World Cup in 2018 in Russia, beating Croatia 4-2 in the final.