Group I could be one of the toughest groups in this World Cup. The teams likely to compete are France, Senegal, and Norway, while Iraq is set to face these formidable teams in all three of their matches.
Here’s a preview of World Cup Group I:
Teams are listed based on predicted standings. * indicates the anticipated third place team that might still progress to the knockout stage.
France
Chances of winning the group: -215
What to know: As the 2018 champions and 2022 finalists, France enters with a heavily skilled team under the guidance of experienced coach Didier Deschamps. With stars like Kylian Mbappé—arguably the best player currently—and others such as Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Oliseh, and N’Golo Kanté, they bring a mix of talent and experience. This is definitely a team to watch.
Playing style: Deschamps has various strategies at hand, but it seems the team favors a 4-2-3-1 formation with Mbappé leading the attack. While they can blitz through games with speed and finesse, they may also take a more strategic approach when necessary, even if some critics at home label their style as overly cautious.
Key players: While he isn’t Messi or Ronaldo, Mbappé stands out as a major figure in football, holding significance in France—actually having close ties with President Emmanuel Macron. After a stint with PSG, he joined Real Madrid in 2024. Much like Zidane and Henry before him, he has become a national icon.
World Cup history: France has a rich legacy in football, having won the World Cup in both 1998 and 2018, and progressing to the finals in 2006 and 2022. Despite a domestic league that’s often viewed unfavorably compared to other major European leagues, France consistently churns out top-tier talent.
Senegal
Odds: +750
Key insights: After winning the African Cup of Nations for the second time in January, Senegal faces some controversy over a ruling that stripped them of the title. Regardless, they’re poised to be a formidable force, spearheaded by stars like Sadio Mané, Nicolas Jackson, and Iliman Ndiaye, alongside solid defenders like Kalidou Koulibaly and Edouard Mendy.
Playing style: With a fluid offensive approach, their front players can interchange positions to bog down defenses. Ismaila Sarr is likely to play a crucial role behind them, while others like Pape Matar Sarr and Idrissa Gueye can play more defensive roles. Coach Pape Thiau can adapt formations as needed, whether it’s 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1.
Star player: Mané is somewhat off the radar since his move to Saudi Arabia but remains Senegal’s all-time leading scorer and a pivotal player capable of turning matches.
World Cup history: Their best finish came in 2002, reaching the quarter-finals. They didn’t fare well in Qatar, losing in the Round of 16, but they aim to improve their past performances in the upcoming World Cup.
Norway*
Odds: +275
What to know: Norway has been somewhat under the radar but now showcases a capable team led by one-of-a-kind striker Erling Haaland. With players like Martin Ødegaard bolstering their offense, qualifying against teams like Italy was surprisingly straightforward, with Norway winning all matches against them.
Playing style: Manager Stole Solbakken focuses on leveraging their attack. Players like Nusa and Bob might stretch defenses wide, aiming to get the ball into Haaland as much as possible. However, defensively, their effectiveness can wane without significant pressure.
Star player: Haaland, renowned as a top-notch goal scorer, is exceptionally skilled in the box and can be a game-changer if the team can deliver the ball to him effectively.
World Cup history: Norway last attended the World Cup in 1998, and they have faced challenges qualifying for the European Championship since 2000. They’ve seen a fair amount of success in the past, with their most memorable run being in 1998.
Iraq
Odds: 80/1
What to know: Iraq’s path to qualifying was particularly arduous, culminating in playoff victories over the UAE and Bolivia. Their journey required extensive travel and was marked by many challenges. This is Iraq’s first World Cup appearance since 1986.
Playing style: Iraq has notable attacking talent, but under Coach Graham Arnold, they’ve leaned toward a more defensive setup. The team is likely to adopt a 4-4-2 formation aimed at absorbing pressure while utilizing counter-attacks.
Star player: Hussein, a key player in Iraq’s qualification run, is the team’s leading scorer and has a notable career in Middle Eastern football.
World Cup history: Iraq only played in one previous World Cup and did not advance past the group stage. That tournament, in 1986, was complicated by the interference of Uday Hussein, who had significant influence over the team during that time.
Group I World Cup Schedule
France vs. Senegal, Tuesday, June 16, 3:00 p.m., New York/New Jersey
Iraq vs. Norway, Tuesday, June 16, 6 p.m., Boston
France vs. Iraq, Monday, June 22, 5 p.m., Philadelphia
Norway vs. Senegal, Monday, June 22, 8 p.m., New York/New Jersey
Norway vs. France, Friday, June 26, 3 p.m., Boston
Senegal vs. Iraq, Friday, June 26, 3:00 p.m., Toronto
