Iraq vs. France
Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia
Monday, June 22, 5 p.m. ET
Group I looked like one of the most entertaining groups in the tournament on paper, and the opening round certainly lived up to expectations. France came away with a 3-1 victory over Senegal in a match that burst into life after halftime, while Norway’s 4-1 win over Iraq was an end-to-end affair from the opening whistle.
The angle I keep coming back to in this match is the sheer attacking quality France possesses. Kylian Mbappé and Michael Olise were outstanding in the second half against Senegal, combining brilliantly and looking increasingly comfortable alongside one another. Add in Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé and Désiré Doué, fresh off a Champions League-winning campaign with PSG, and it is easy to see why this attack is feared throughout the tournament.
What makes France even more dangerous is the depth available from the bench. Players such as Rayan Cherki and Bradley Barcola would start for most nations at this World Cup, yet they are options that Didier Deschamps can bring on as the game progresses. If France can score three goals against a Senegal side known for its defensive organization, I have no doubt they can create plenty of chances against Iraq.
Iraq’s route to the World Cup was longer than any other nation in the field, but there were warning signs throughout qualification. Heavy defeats to Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Algeria and Venezuela highlighted defensive vulnerabilities, and those issues were on display again in the 4-1 defeat to Norway. If they struggled to contain Erling Haaland and company, this French attack presents an even tougher challenge.
France also looked solid defensively in their opener, with Senegal’s goal coming as little more than a consolation. Against an Iraq side that has struggled against stronger opposition, I expect Les Bleus to control the game at both ends of the pitch.
France has the firepower, depth and quality to overwhelm teams, and I think they make another statement here. My preferred angle is France to win comfortably, and I would not be surprised to see them cover the -2.5 handicap.
World Cup Best Bet: France –2.5 Asian Handicap at -116
