Mbappe to lead France against Iraq in World Cup qualifier

France, the two-time world champions, are poised to make minimal adjustments for their upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifier against Iraq in Boston. Following a decisive 3-1 victory over Senegal in their campaign opener, Les Bleus are just one win away from securing their place in the top 32.

Coach Didier Deschamps appears inclined to maintain team stability rather than implement significant squad rotation, despite a wealth of talent on the bench. Potential changes might include Bradley Barcola replacing Desire Doue on the left wing and Lucas Digne potentially taking over from Theo Hernandez at left-back. Manu Kone is nearing a starting position in midfield, having frequently partnered Adrien Rabiot in recent training sessions. However, the core of the team is expected to remain led by star forward Kylian Mbappe, who scored twice against Senegal, supported by Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele in attack.

While qualification is the priority, the match offers Deschamps an opportunity to test new combinations ahead of the knockout stages without disrupting the team's rhythm. Iraq, on the other hand, is under immense pressure after being thrashed 1-4 by Norway in their opening match and requires a positive outcome to revive their qualification aspirations. France defender William Saliba cautioned his teammates against underestimating Iraq.

"We watched their match against Norway and I think they have a good team," Saliba said. "It will not be easy. Just because we are playing Iraq does not mean we will automatically get three points."

Iraq enters the match with a must-win objective against France, despite being the perceived underdog against Deschamps' squad. Coach Graham Arnold's team will rely on their top scorers, Aymen Hussein and Ali Al-Hamadi, along with the creativity of midfielder Zidane Iqbal, to breach France's defense.

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We watched their match against Norway and I think they have a good team. It will not be easy. Just because we are playing Iraq does not mean we will automatically get three points.