France’s World Cup squad boasts significant Serie A talent, with Manu Koné, Mike Maignan, and Adrien Rabiot set to feature in their match against Iraq. The game is scheduled to commence at 22:00 UK time (23:00 CEST, 17:00 local time) at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, as part of Group I. This fixture comes amidst a backdrop of thunderstorm warnings in the Philadelphia area, which could potentially cause delays.
Following a 3-1 victory over Senegal in their opening game, where Kylian Mbappé scored twice and Bradley Barcola added a goal, Les Bleus are looking to build on their performance. Milan midfielder Adrien Rabiot, who provided an assist for one of the goals against Senegal, will again start in midfield alongside his club teammate Maignan in goal. This match sees Rabiot partnered by Roma’s Manu Koné in the midfield, rather than Aurélien Tchouaméni. Inter striker Marcus Thuram is a substitute and is still awaiting his first appearance in the tournament.
Iraq enters this match after a 4-1 defeat to Norway in their opening fixture, despite Aymen Hussein having scored a temporary equalizer. The severe thunderstorm warnings in Philadelphia raise concerns about potential kick-off delays, a common issue when the USA, Canada, and Mexico co-host the World Cup during peak lightning season. Stadium organizers have cautioned that gate openings might be delayed and are urging fans not to travel to the venue until further notice. The established rules state that if lightning is detected within an eight-mile radius of the stadium, the match will be temporarily suspended for 30 minutes, requiring players and fans to seek shelter.
France vs Iraq Starting Line-ups:
France: Maignan; Koundé, Saliba, Upamecano, Digne; Koné, Rabiot; Olise, Dembélé, Barcola; Mbappé
Iraq: Basil; Ali, Tahseen, Hashim, Doski; Iqbal, Al Ammari, Zaid Ismael, Bayesh; Qasem, Hussein
