2026 World Cup: France vs. Iraq, Probable Lineups

Following its 3-1 victory over Senegal in its opening match of the 2026 World Cup, France is set to face Iraq. The match will be played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia at 11:00 p.m. Italian time.

Didier Deschamps is considering a slight lineup change: Digne will start in place of Theo Hernandez, with Saliba, Upamecano, and Kounde rounding out the defense. In midfield, Kone will take Tchouameni’s place alongside Rabiot, with Barcola, Olise, and Dembele playing in front of them. Mbappé is a sure starter up front.

Graham Arnold’s Iraq was crushed 4-1 by Norway in their opener, and they’ll need a miracle against Les Bleus to secure a positive result. Ahead of Basil, the lineup is expected to feature Ali, Tahseen, Hashem, and Doski. Bayesh and Ali Jasim on the wings with Al-Ammari and Iqbal in the middle; up front, the duo of Hussein and Al-Hamadi.

France vs. Iraq: Probable Lineups
FRANCE (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Digne; Rabiot, Kone; Dembele, Olise, Barcola; Mbappe. Head Coach: Deschamps
IRAQ (4-4-2): Basil; Ali, Tahseen, Hashem, Doski; Bayesh, Al-Ammari, Iqbal, Ali Jasim; Hussein, Al-Hamadi. Head Coach: Arnold