Kylian Mbappé scored twice and Ousmane Dembélé added another as France cruised to a 3-0 win over Iraq in a World Cup 2026 match that was delayed for two hours at half-time due to a thunderstorm in Philadelphia.
Match Delayed by Thunderstorm
The match at Lincoln Financial Field was suspended at half-time with France leading 1-0, as a severe thunderstorm with lightning moved into the area. The delay lasted approximately two hours, with play resuming at 8pm local time (1am BST).
FIFA issued a statement saying: "Due to the adverse weather conditions and the risk of lightning in the vicinity of the stadium, the FIFA World Cup match between France and Iraq has been suspended. FIFA will follow the safety protocols established by the local authorities and the match will resume as soon as it is safe to do so."
Mbappé Stars with Brace
Mbappé opened the scoring in the 14th minute, and added his second in the 54th minute after the restart. He now has 16 goals in 16 World Cup games, placing him second-equal on the all-time list at age 27, behind Lionel Messi who has 18 goals.
Dembélé made it 3-0 in the 66th minute, with Michael Olise providing the assist. France dominated with 19 shots, while Iraq rarely troubled goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
Iraq's Struggles Continue
Iraq lost for the sixth time in six World Cup matches. Despite bright moments from Ali al-Hamadi and Zidane Iqbal, they could not break through the French defense. A defensive error in the 54th minute handed Mbappé his second goal, similar to their mistake against Norway.
France coach Didier Deschamps substituted Mbappé in the 90th minute, with the game already decided. The win keeps France on track in Group D, while Iraq face an uphill battle to advance.
