Philadelphia, June 23 (SANA) Kylian Mbappé scored twice as France defeated Iraq 3-0 on Monday to secure a place in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Playing at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, France took control early when Mbappé opened the scoring in the 14th minute. Ousmane Dembélé doubled the lead shortly after halftime before Mbappé added his second goal of the match in the 66th minute to seal the victory.
The match was interrupted by severe weather conditions at halftime, with play suspended for nearly two hours before resuming. The delay extended the total duration of the game to almost four hours.
The win lifted France to six points from two matches and ensured qualification from Group I with one game to spare.
Norway is second in the group on three points, while Senegal and Iraq remain without a point after two rounds of matches.
France’s qualification reinforces its status as one of the tournament favorites, with Mbappé once again playing a decisive role in the team’s campaign.
R.H/Abd
