France vs. Iraq Picks and Prediction for Monday, June 22, 2026

By: Garrett Beaverson Published 06/21/2026, 10:42 PM ET

Another intriguing matchup of the 2026 FIFA World Cup takes place on Monday, June 22, as France takes on Iraq in a game that could go a long way toward determining the group's final standings. France opened their tournament with a convincing 3-1 victory over Senegal, while Iraq suffered a difficult 4-1 defeat against Norway, leaving them under immediate pressure to produce a result. Get in on the action with our free World Cup picks.

For France, three more points would virtually secure a place in the knockout stage before their final group match against Norway. For Iraq, anything less than a positive result would leave their World Cup hopes hanging by a thread heading into Matchday 3.

The talent gap between these two nations is significant on paper, but World Cup group-stage matches often become more complicated when one side is playing with desperation. Iraq will likely approach this game knowing that a disciplined defensive performance is their best path to an upset.

Read on to find out where the value lies in our France vs. Iraq prediction.

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France: One of the Tournament Favorites Looking Dominant Early

France entered the 2026 World Cup as one of the favorites to lift the trophy, and their opening performance against Senegal did little to change that perception.

Les Bleus showcased their tremendous depth in the 3-1 victory, controlling possession for long stretches while creating numerous scoring opportunities. The attack remains centered around Kylian Mbappé, who continues to be one of the most dangerous players in international football. His combination of pace, finishing ability, and creativity makes him a nightmare matchup for any defense.

Beyond Mbappé, France boasts one of the deepest squads in the tournament. Players such as Ousmane Dembélé, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Bradley Barcola provide quality throughout the lineup, allowing Didier Deschamps to rotate without sacrificing production.

France's midfield remains a major strength. Tchouaméni and Camavinga provide defensive stability while also helping transition the ball forward quickly, making it difficult for opponents to sustain pressure.

Defensively, France looked organized against Senegal despite conceding once. William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano form one of the strongest center-back pairings in the tournament, while Mike Maignan gives France confidence between the posts.

Against an Iraqi side that struggled defensively against Norway, France should be able to create opportunities throughout the match.

Iraq: Facing a Massive Challenge After Opening Defeat

Iraq enters this matchup needing a response after a disappointing 4-1 loss to Norway on Matchday 1.

While the scoreline was difficult, Iraq did show flashes of quality going forward. Their ability to create chances against a talented Norwegian side suggests they can still be dangerous in transition when opportunities arise.

However, defensive organization remains the biggest concern.

Against Norway, Iraq struggled to contain movement in the final third and frequently found themselves under pressure after turnovers. Those issues become even more problematic against a French attack that possesses more speed and creativity than virtually any team in the tournament.

Iraq's likely approach will be to defend in numbers, stay compact, and look for counterattacking opportunities. Limiting space behind the back line will be essential, particularly against Mbappé's pace.

The challenge is maintaining concentration for 90 minutes. France's depth and ability to create chances from multiple positions often wear opponents down as matches progress.

If Iraq is going to have any chance of pulling off a surprise result, they'll need a near-perfect defensive performance and clinical finishing on the limited opportunities they create.

France vs. Iraq Picks

Match Result Pick: France -1.5 Goals

France possesses too much quality across the pitch for Iraq to match over the course of 90 minutes.

The French attack should consistently create chances against a defense that allowed four goals in its opening match, while France's own defensive structure should limit Iraq's opportunities in transition.

Even if Iraq manages to stay organized early, France's depth and attacking variety should eventually break the game open.

Take France to win by multiple goals.

Over/Under Pick: Over 2.5 Goals

France's attacking firepower alone gives this total significant upside.

Les Bleus scored three goals against Senegal and created numerous additional opportunities. Iraq's defensive struggles against Norway suggest they may have difficulty containing another elite attack.

While Iraq may not contribute much offensively, France is capable of pushing this total over by themselves if they convert their chances efficiently.

Take the Over.