France takes on Iraq on Monday, June 22, in a Group I World Cup clash at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The 2022 runners-up come into this one full of confidence. Following a strong 3-1 World Cup betting odds win over Senegal. Kylian Mbappé delivered a brace. Including a stunning late strike that broke Olivier Giroud’s record as France’s all-time leading scorer. And then Bradley Barcola added another to highlight their attacking firepower under Didier Deschamps.
Iraq, returning to the World Cup for the first time in 40 years, fell 4-1 to Norway in its online wagering debut. Aymen Hussein netted their historic goal, but the defense struggled against Erling Haaland’s clinical display. This sets up a massive challenge for the Lions of Mesopotamia. They are expected to defend deep, stay compact, and hunt for opportunities on the counter.
France should control the ball and territory, using the pace and creativity of Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé. In addition, there is a strong supporting cast, such as Michael Olise, to probe weaknesses and create overload. Their experienced backline and midfield depth make them very hard to break down. In turn, Iraq will need near-perfect execution and perhaps some French complacency to nick a result in what is likely a one-sided affair on paper.
France vs. Iraq 2026 FIFA World Cup Betting Information
| Date and Time: | Monday, June 22, 5 PM ET. |
|---|---|
| Location: | Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia |
| TV Coverage: | FOX/Peacock/FOX Sports App |
| Team | Spread | Total | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iraq | +2½ ( EV ) | 3½ ( -105 ) | +3000 | |
| France | -2½ ( -120 ) | 3½ ( -115 ) | -1200 |  |
| Draw | – | – | +1000 | |
| ||||
France takes on Iraq in their Group I World Cup clash on Monday, June 22, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, with kickoff set for 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Coverage is available on FOX and streaming options like Peacock or the FOX Sports app.
2026 World Cup France vs. Iraq Betting Analysis
Last time out, France cruised to a 3-1 World Cup betting lines victory over Senegal in their Group I opener on Tuesday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Thus, shaking off a sluggish first half to assert control after the break. Kylian Mbappé stole the headlines with a stunning 30-yard rocket deep in stoppage time that not only sealed the win. Additionally, the goal saw him surpass Olivier Giroud as France’s all-time leading scorer with 58 international goals.
Bradley Barcola, fresh off the bench, added a composed chip in the 82nd minute to make it 2-0. While Senegal’s teenage substitute Ibrahim Mbaye pulled one back moments earlier with a neat solo effort. The Lions of Teranga started brightly and matched France’s intensity early. Namely, Nicolas Jackson caused problems. But Les Bleus’ superior depth and clinical finishing in the second period proved decisive.
By contrast, Iraq suffered a 4-1 defeat to Norway in their Group I opener on Tuesday at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. It marked a tough return to the World Cup after 40 years away. Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a clinical finish on his tournament debut. But Aymen Hussein responded brilliantly ten minutes later with a powerful header that rose above three defenders to level the match. And then gave the Iraqis a historic first World Cup goal.
France vs. Iraq SBG Free Pick
To conclude, Wise Guys believe France should comfortably dominate Iraq. Their attacking depth with Mbappé, Dembélé, and others should overwhelm Iraq’s defense. Gamblers expect a one-sided affair. Also, sharps like the game over the total. France’s potent front line points to multiple goals from Les Bleus.
Finally, props players like Kylian Mbappé anytime goalscorer and the France team total over 2.5 goals. These align with France controlling the game, rotating players effectively, and pulling away in the second half.
SBG Best Bet: France and Over the Total.