World Cup 2026: France can reach Round of 16 with win over Iraq

The French national football team, "Les Bleus," is aiming for a second consecutive victory in the 2026 World Cup when they face Iraq on Monday. A win would virtually guarantee their advancement to the Round of 16, a new stage in the expanded 48-team tournament.

However, the new format, which includes the eight best third-placed teams advancing, complicates mathematical certainty. Even with a win against Iraq, France's final group standing could still be uncertain until the last match, depending on other results, particularly between Senegal and Norway.

Should France secure a win and Senegal also win their match, France would still be in a strong position. But a heavy defeat against Iraq, coupled with a Senegal victory, could theoretically lead to a three-way tie. In such a scenario, France's six points would likely ensure them a spot as one of the best third-placed teams.

Even a draw against Iraq could be sufficient for qualification, potentially securing a top-two finish if Norway defeats Senegal. A loss to Iraq, while not mathematically eliminating them, would place significant pressure on the team. However, three points might still be enough to advance as a best third-placed team, and a subsequent win against Norway could still secure group leadership.