HT - France 1, Iraq 0

It's been a strong start for the two-time World champions. In ugly conditions, they have been largely in command with their slick passing and sheer physicality. For all their firepower going forward, Didier Deschamps' squad is one of the most imposing sides in the world. Led by their tremendous back four and fantastic goalkeeper, they complement the plethora of world-class attacking talent very well.
Building off his memorable performance against Senegal, it only took 14 minutes for Kylian Mbappe to add his latest highlight-reel goal to an extraordinary World Cup resume. Michael Olise passed it to him from the right, where Mbappe was waiting for the ball on the edge of the box. Iraq's defense sat off him, which was a costly decision. France's all-time leading goal scorer bent in a curler with his weaker foot in stunning fashion. There was enough power with the bend for the shot to make it past Iraq's goalkeeper Ahmed Basil Fadhil.
France hasn't created many clear chances, as Iraq has defended admirably. Ousamane Dembele and Bradley Barcola have shown flashes, beating defenders in isolation with exceptional footwork and pace to put dangerous balls into the box. Those moments didn't result in any shots on target. As proven in their first game, France can turn it on at any time. The rainstorm could prevent them from reaching the same heights as last Tuesday.











.png)



.jpg)
.jpg)
