GROUP I — FIFA WORLD CUP 2026
The Teams
The Fixtures
Group Analysis
France are the world’s No.1 ranked side and one of the tournament’s overwhelming favourites. Didier Deschamps has assembled what many consider the deepest squad of any nation. Kylian Mbappé needs no introduction: the fastest player in tournament history, the top scorer of the 2022 World Cup despite France losing the final. At 27, this is his defining World Cup. At Real Madrid, Mbappé has evolved: more clinical, more of a leader, more complete. France are the team to beat.
Norway are the group’s most tantalizing wildcard. Erling Haaland — the most prolific striker of the modern era — has never had a World Cup platform. Norway’s first World Cup since 1998 gives Haaland the stage he deserves. Mbappé vs Haaland on June 26 is arguably the single most anticipated match of the entire group stage — two generational superstars, both at the peak of their powers, on the world’s greatest stage.
Senegal reached the quarter-finals in 2022 and remain one of Africa’s most dangerous sides. Sadio Mané, despite the latter stages of his career, still carries enormous quality and leadership. Iliman Ndiaye provides dynamic forward play. Senegal and Norway will fight hard for second place.
Iraq return to the World Cup for the first time since Mexico 1986 — a 40-year wait. Their qualification is one of pure emotion and perseverance.
🎯 PREDICTION: WHO ADVANCES?
1st: France — head and shoulders above this group. 2nd: Norway — Haaland’s first World Cup will be spectacular. Norway vs Senegal is the decisive match for second place.
SOURCES
⚽ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What should you know about: The Teams?
France are the world’s No.1 ranked side and one of the tournament’s overwhelming favourites. Didier Deschamps has assembled what many consider the deepest squad of any nation. Kylian Mbappé needs no introduction: the...
What should you know about: The Fixtures?
France are the world’s No.1 ranked side and one of the tournament’s overwhelming favourites. Didier Deschamps has assembled what many consider the deepest squad of any nation. Kylian Mbappé needs no introduction: the...
What should you know about: Group Analysis?
France are the world’s No.1 ranked side and one of the tournament’s overwhelming favourites. Didier Deschamps has assembled what many consider the deepest squad of any nation. Kylian Mbappé needs no introduction: the...