France and Norway have qualified for the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winning their first two Group I matches to reach six points.
France secured qualification with a 3-0 win over Iraq in Philadelphia. Kylian Mbappe scored in the 14th minute and added a second after the break, while Ousmane Dembele wrapped up the victory. The match was delayed at halftime due to thunderstorms, but Didier Deschamps’ side remained in control after play resumed.
The win followed France’s 3-1 victory over Senegal in their opening match and guaranteed their place in the knockout stage.
Mbappe’s brace also took his World Cup tally to 16 goals, drawing level with former Germany striker Miroslav Klose for second place on the all-time scoring list. The French captain has scored four goals at the 2026 tournament.
Norway also advanced after a 3-2 win over Senegal at MetLife Stadium. Marcus Pedersen opened the scoring before Erling Haaland struck twice in the second half to give Norway a 3-1 lead. Ismaila Sarr scored twice for Senegal, but the Africans were unable to complete a comeback.
The victory followed Norway’s 4-1 win over Iraq and secured their first place in the World Cup knockout stage since 1998.
With both teams on six points, France and Norway will meet on June 26 to decide the Group I winner, while Senegal and Iraq will fight to keep their qualification hopes alive.
