France weather the storm to beat Iraq and sail into last 32

France survived a two-hour storm delay and a physical Iraqi challenge to secure a commanding 3-0 victory in their World Cup group-stage finale, ensuring top spot in Group D and a straight path to the last 32. Kylian Mbappé, lining up in his 100th international cap, led the charge with a composed brace that moved him to second on France’s all-time World Cup scoring list with 16 goals. The result was never in doubt once Mbappé broke the deadlock, and Didier Deschamps’ side finished the job with authority.

Mbappé’s milestone caps emphatic French display

Playing in his 100th match for France, Mbappé delivered exactly when it mattered, scoring twice to underline his status as the tournament’s most influential forward. His first arrived midway through the first half, a clinical finish that broke Iraqi resistance and set the tone for a dominant second period. The second goal, a composed effort after a swift counter, sealed the win and underlined France’s attacking depth. With 16 World Cup goals, Mbappé now sits just behind Thierry Henry on France’s all-time scoring chart, a milestone that cements his legacy in the national team’s history.

The victory was built on control. France dominated possession and territory, probing Iraq’s mid-block with incisive passing and quick transitions. Mbappé’s movement constantly stretched the Iraqi defence, while his teammates provided the necessary support to convert pressure into chances. The French bench, introduced late, added fresh legs and pace, ensuring Iraq had little respite in the final 20 minutes.

Iraq show grit but lack cutting edge

Iraq entered the match needing a win to keep their hopes alive, and they started with energy, pressing high and forcing France into early errors. Their physicality unsettled Les Bleus at times, particularly in midfield duels, but they lacked the composure in final third to trouble Mike Maignan’s goal. A rare first-half chance fell to a forward who forced the French goalkeeper into a sharp save, but Iraq’s inability to convert pressure into clear-cut chances proved costly.

As the game wore on, Iraq’s intensity waned, and France’s superior technical quality began to tell. The introduction of Ousmane Dembélé and Eduardo Camavinga added another dimension, stretching Iraq’s backline and allowing France to exploit the spaces that opened up. By the 70th minute, Iraq’s resistance had crumbled, and France’s third goal, though not detailed in the report, confirmed their dominance.

Deschamps’ men march on with momentum

Deschamps will have been pleased with his side’s composure after the delay, which disrupted their rhythm but did not derail their focus. The win sets up a last-32 tie against a second-placed team from an adjacent group, a prospect that should offer France a favourable route through the knockout stages. With Mbappé leading the line and a deep squad capable of adapting to different opponents, France are well-placed to make a deep run.

The French defence, marshalled by veteran centre-backs, remained solid despite occasional lapses in concentration. Maignan, in particular, made crucial interventions to keep Iraq at bay, while the full-backs provided width and defensive cover. Midfielders like Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot controlled the tempo, ensuring France’s transition from defence to attack was smooth and purposeful.

As the group stage closes, France’s next challenge will demand the same intensity and precision. Mbappé’s milestone and the team’s collective performance suggest they are peaking at the right time. For Iraq, the tournament ends with pride but frustration at missed chances. For France, the journey continues with confidence.