France will look to move top of their World Cup group as they take on Iraq in Philadelphia on Monday, though the match faces potential disruption from severe storms.
Match Overview and Group Standings
Didier Deschamps' side got their tournament campaign off to a winning start, with two goals from Kylian Mbappe helping them to a 3-1 victory over Senegal. Les Bleus now sit second in Group I, level on points with Norway, but will go top tonight with a draw or victory against Iraq.
Iraq were beaten 4-1 by an Erling Haaland-inspired Norway last week, leaving them bottom of the group.
Weather Threat and Contingency Plans
The game at Lincoln Financial Field is at risk of delays due to stormy weather. Tournament officials are preparing measures for such an eventuality, including possible evacuation of fans to concourses or emergency shelter facilities if heavy storms strike.
Under FIFA regulations, the match must be halted if lightning strikes within eight miles of the stadium. Fans would be removed from their seats, and play would not resume until a 30-minute period without lightning has passed. Repeated interruptions could force organisers to push the game back to Tuesday.
Kick-Off Time and Broadcast Details
France v Iraq kicks off at 10pm BST on Monday, June 22, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The game will be shown live and free-to-air in the UK on BBC1, with coverage beginning at 9.30pm. Viewers can also stream the match live on BBC iPlayer with a log-in.
Team News and Predicted Line-Ups
France centre-back William Saliba admitted he had to 'grit his teeth' and play through pain during the win over Senegal, having picked up 'minor niggles' during a gruelling season for Arsenal. However, he is expected to keep his place in defence, with Theo Hernandez, Malo Gusto and Dayot Upamecano also set to be fit.
Iraq forward Ali Jasim was forced off with a neck injury in the second half against Norway but has since been cleared to face France.
Predicted line-ups:
France: Maignan, Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Digne, Rabiot, Kone, Dembele, Olise, Barcola, Mbappe
Iraq: Basil, Ali, Tahseen, Hashem, Doski, Bayesh, Al-Ammari, Iqbal, Ali Jasim, Hussein, Al-Hamadi
